Kevin Sumlin has officially agreed with Arizona to become their next head coach, first reported by SiriusXM. Sumlin’s decision comes after a tumultuous season with Texas A&M. Sumlin is known for his recruiting prowess and finished with a 51-26 record and .662 win percentage at Texas A&M, which is the second highest winning percentage for a Texas A&M head coach in the modern era.
Sumlin takes over for Rich Rodriguez, who was fired in light of a sexual harassment allegation against him as well as a hostile-workplace lawsuit filed against him.
Arizona was in pursuit of Navy Head Coach Ken Niumatalolo for the position, but The Arizona Daily Star reported that Niumatalolo would remain at Navy.
Arizona fans have reasons to rejoice with this hire. Sumlin was the hot coach leaving Houston and left a remarkable impact on the state of Texas A&M’s program, as mentioned by Athletic Director Scott Woodward when he said, “Kevin’s tenure included some remarkable achievements and he leaves our program as one of the winningest football coaches in our storied history.”
Coach Sumlin brings more national recognition to the program and he’s already a landed a transfer in WR Keyshawn Johnson Jr., who should be eligible to play this year.
Arizona will look to make some noise in the Pac-12 next year despite the Foster Farms Bowl with QB Khalil Tate returning to the team.