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14h ago

Texas Hires Will Muschamp as Defensive Coordinator, Fires Pete Kwiatkowski

Sarkisian frames the move as a shift to an aggressive identity under a 'head coach of the defense'.

Nov 24, 2018; Clemson, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Will Muschamp during the first quarter of the game against the Clemson Tigers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
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AUSTIN, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 28: Arch Manning #16 of the Texas Longhorns walks off the field after beating the Texas A&M Aggies 27-17 at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 28, 2025 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Sarkisian confirmed Muschamp has met players but will not coach the Dec. 31 Citrus Bowl against Michigan, with linebackers coach Johnny Nansen set to call the defensive plays.
  • Texas also dismissed defensive passing game coordinator Duane Akina as part of the overhaul following a 9-3 season.
  • Sarkisian said Muschamp’s leadership will let him focus more on offense on game days and set a tougher defensive tone.
  • The defense allowed 11.0 points per game over the first six games but 28.5 in the second half, finishing 23rd nationally in scoring defense at 19.8 points per game.
  • Firing Kwiatkowski will cost Texas more than $2 million unless he secures new employment before March 2027, according to contract terms reported by the Statesman.