40 Facts About Gus Malzahn

Early Life and Education

Gus Malzahn's journey in football began in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he was born on October 28, 1965. His early years laid the foundation for his future success in coaching.

1. Gus Malzahn was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
2. He attended Henderson State University, where he played football.
3. Malzahn became a two-year letterman, averaging 35.3 yards per punt in his first year and 37.7 yards in his senior year.

High School Coaching Success

Malzahn's coaching career took off in high school football, where he quickly made a name for himself with innovative strategies and impressive results.

4. Malzahn began his coaching career as the defensive coordinator at Hughes High School in 1991.
5. He became the head coach in 1992 and led the team to the state championship game in 1994.
6. In 1996, Malzahn became the head coach at Shiloh Christian School.
7. During his tenure from 1996 to 2000, he transformed Shiloh Christian into one of the most dynamic offensive prep squads in the nation.
8. In 1998, Shiloh Christian set a national record with 66 passing touchdowns for the season.
9. Malzahn guided Shiloh Christian to back-to-back state championships in 1998 and 1999.
10. In 2001, Malzahn took over at Springdale High School.
11. He led Springdale to two state championship game appearances, winning the title in 2005.
12. His 2005 squad went 14-0, outscoring opponents 664-118, and was ranked among the top 10 teams in the nation.

Transition to College Coaching

Malzahn's success in high school football paved the way for his transition to the collegiate level, where he continued to make a significant impact.

13. Malzahn joined the University of Arkansas staff in 2005, helping the Razorbacks win the 2006 SEC West Division title.
14. Before joining Auburn, Malzahn spent two seasons as the offensive coordinator at the University of Tulsa.
15. In 2007, Tulsa ranked first in the nation in total yards per game, setting nine team school records and 12 individual records.
16. Malzahn became the offensive coordinator at Auburn University in 2009.
17. Auburn improved from a tie for 110th to seventh in the nation in scoring offense and from 104th to seventh in total offense within a two-year period.

Achievements at Auburn University

Malzahn's tenure at Auburn University was marked by numerous achievements, including a national championship and several conference titles.

18. In 2010, Malzahn helped lead the Auburn Tigers to a national championship.
19. The team finished 14-0, setting nine school records, including points in a season (577), points per game (41.2), total yards (6,989), and total offense (499.2).
20. During his tenure at Auburn, Malzahn coached Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton.
21. In 2010, Malzahn was awarded the Frank Broyles Award, given annually to the nation's top collegiate assistant coach.
22. In 2013, Malzahn was named the SEC Coach of the Year after leading Auburn to a 12-2 record and an SEC Championship.
23. The 2013 season under Malzahn was one of the biggest turnarounds in college football history.
24. Auburn, which had lost all eight league games the previous season, finished with an SEC Championship and an appearance in the national title game.
25. Malzahn's success at Auburn brought him national attention.
26. He was named one of the best recruiters in the Southeastern Conference by ESPN in 2011.
27. Malzahn led Auburn to two SEC Championships (2010 and 2013) and a Sun Belt Championship at Arkansas State in 2012.
28. Under Malzahn's leadership, Auburn qualified for eight straight bowl games, including the 2013 BCS National Championship Game.
29. Malzahn became the third coach in SEC history to win an SEC title in his first year at a school.

Offensive Innovations and Player Development

Malzahn is known for his innovative offensive strategies and his ability to develop players into top performers.

30. During his tenure at Tulsa, Malzahn coordinated an offense that finished first nationally in total offense in 2007 and 2008.
31. Before coaching at Tulsa, Malzahn served as the offensive coordinator at Arkansas.
32. He coached Heisman Trophy runner-up Darren McFadden and helped the Razorbacks finish fourth nationally in rushing offense.
33. In 14 seasons as a high school head coach, Malzahn led seven teams to the state championship game and won three titles.
34. He coached two quarterbacks who set national passing records: Josh Floyd and Rhett Lashlee.
35. Malzahn tutored Mitch Mustain, the 2005 Gatorade, Parade Magazine, and Rivals.com National Player of the Year at Springdale High School.
36. Malzahn's coaching philosophy emphasizes speed, agility, and quick decision-making.
37. His no-huddle offense has been particularly effective in creating high-scoring games and keeping defenses on their heels.
38. Malzahn has coached several Heisman finalists, including Nick Marshall and Tre Mason.
39. He has produced 14 All-Americans during his tenure at Auburn.
40. Malzahn's legacy in college football is marked by his innovative approach to the game, his ability to develop players, and his consistent success on the field.

Gus Malzahn's Impact on College Football

Gus Malzahn's journey from high school coaching to leading major college football programs is nothing short of remarkable. His innovative offensive strategies, like the no-huddle offense, have left a lasting mark on the game. Malzahn's ability to turn teams around, as seen with Auburn's 2013 season, showcases his coaching prowess. Winning national championships, SEC titles, and developing Heisman winners like Cam Newton highlight his success. Now at UCF, Malzahn continues to shape the future of college football with his dynamic approach. His legacy isn't just about wins and titles; it's about transforming the way the game is played and developing players to their fullest potential. Gus Malzahn's influence on college football is undeniable, making him one of the sport's most respected and innovative coaches.