Former Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn has announced his retirement from coaching after an impressive 35-year career in football, which began at small high schools in Arkansas and culminated in significant achievements in college football, particularly within the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Malzahn shared his decision with CBS Sports, revealing that he had considered stepping back following the 2024 season at the University of Central Florida (UCF) but ultimately decided to retire after receiving an opportunity from Florida State head coach Mike Norvell to serve as the offensive coordinator. “I’m excited to spend more time with my family and to focus on what the Lord is calling me to do next,” he expressed.
During his eight seasons at Auburn, Malzahn showcased his talent for high-stakes coaching, highlighted by an SEC championship win and a runner-up finish in 2013. The notable “Kick Six” play, where Chris Davis returned a missed field goal 100 yards to secure a dramatic victory against Alabama, stands as one of the defining moments of his tenure. Malzahn’s overall coaching record in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) stands at 105-62, while he also played a pivotal role in guiding UCF’s transition from the Group of Five to the Big 12 Conference.
Malzahn concluded his coaching career at Florida State, where, in the 2025 season, he successfully led the offensive team, even securing a notable win against Alabama with a score of 31-17 in the season opener. Reflecting on his retirement, Malzahn stated, “After 35 years, it’s time for me to step away from coaching. I am excited to spend more time with my family and focus on the next chapter of my life.” He expressed gratitude to Coach Norvell for the opportunity, confident that the program will thrive under Norvell’s leadership and the coordination of Tim Harris.
Throughout his career, Malzahn earned two SEC titles and coached a remarkable lineup of players, including Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton and other finalists like Tre Mason and Darren McFadden. Transitioning from high school football to the SEC in 2006, he established himself as a prolific offensive coordinator, first at Arkansas before making records at Tulsa and then taking the head coaching position at Arkansas State, where he won a Sun Belt championship.
Mike Norvell, the current head coach at Florida State, praised Malzahn’s contributions to the program over the past 14 months, noting his ability to build a solid foundation for the offense and expressing optimism for continued success moving forward. With Tim Harris set to take charge of the offensive coordination, the program is positioned for a promising future.
Malzahn’s retirement marks the end of an era but opens new opportunities to enrich his personal life and invest in his family, leaving behind a legacy that has greatly contributed to the evolution of college football.