2021 coach: Skip Holtz (out after 3-9 season)
Replacement: Sonny Cumbie, previously Texas Tech offensive coordinator
Grade: B+
The Holtz situation surprised some in the industry, given his success until recent years. But Louisiana Tech wanted a fresh start, and it will get it with Cumbie, who brings extensive Power 5 experience from both Texas Tech, his alma mater, and TCU, where he held a coordinator role from 2014 to 2020. Cumbie, 40, is very rooted in his home state of Texas, where Louisiana Tech gets many of its players. But this will mark his first job outside of Texas, and he could need some time to adjust to the Louisiana environment and recruiting scene. Cumbie handled Texas Tech's interim head-coaching duties earlier this year after Matt Wells was fired, but he has never been a permanent head coach. His offense and background in quarterback development makes him an appealing hire for Louisiana Tech, which boasts a solid tradition at QB.
Replacement: Sonny Cumbie, previously Texas Tech offensive coordinator
Grade: B+
The Holtz situation surprised some in the industry, given his success until recent years. But Louisiana Tech wanted a fresh start, and it will get it with Cumbie, who brings extensive Power 5 experience from both Texas Tech, his alma mater, and TCU, where he held a coordinator role from 2014 to 2020. Cumbie, 40, is very rooted in his home state of Texas, where Louisiana Tech gets many of its players. But this will mark his first job outside of Texas, and he could need some time to adjust to the Louisiana environment and recruiting scene. Cumbie handled Texas Tech's interim head-coaching duties earlier this year after Matt Wells was fired, but he has never been a permanent head coach. His offense and background in quarterback development makes him an appealing hire for Louisiana Tech, which boasts a solid tradition at QB.
