Kirby Moore Named Washington State Head Football Coach, Ushering in New Era for Cougars
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Washington State University has appointed Kirby moore as its next head football coach, signaling a fresh start for the program following the departure of Jimmy Rogers. The announcement, made Friday afternoon, positions Moore – a rising star in the coaching ranks – to lead the Cougars into a new competitive landscape.
A Return to the Northwest for a Proven Offensive Mind
Moore, moast recently the offensive coordinator at Missouri, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity. “I’m honored adn excited to join Washington State
Contract Details Favor New Head Coach
Washington State appears to be in a favorable position regarding Moore’s contract. According to the terms, Moore will not owe a buyout if he leaves to except another head coaching opportunity, a detail that provides the university with financial adaptability.
From Boise State to the SEC: A Coaching Trajectory
A native of Prosser, Washington – approximately 170 miles from Pullman – Moore’s coaching journey began after a playing career as a wide receiver at Boise State from 2009-2013.He entered the profession in 2014, coaching receivers at the College of Idaho, which had recently reinstated its football program. he then spent two seasons (2015-2016) at washington, serving as a graduate assistant and offensive assistant under head coach Chris Petersen.
Moore’s career gained momentum during six seasons at Fresno State, where he coached wide receivers (2017-2019), added passing game coordinator responsibilities (2020-2021), and ultimately served as offensive coordinator in 2022. He joined Missouri in January 2023, where he quickly made an impact.
Missouri’s Offensive Surge Under Moore
During his three seasons at Missouri, the Tigers achieved a 29-9 record, including bowl game victories in the first two years. This fall, Missouri finished with an 8-4 record and secured a berth in the gator Bowl, where they will face Virginia on December 27. Under Moore’s guidance, the Tigers’ offense rose to national prominence, finishing 27th in total offense (429 yards per game) and 32nd in scoring offense (just over 32 points per game). Within the Southeastern Conference (SEC), these figures ranked sixth.
Notably, Missouri led the SEC and ranked eighth nationally in rushing yards per game, averaging 234.1. Moore also played a key role in the development of quarterback Brady Cook, who amassed 5,852 passing yards and 32 touchdowns across the 2023 and 2024 seasons, and running back Ahmad Hardy, the nation’s second-leading rusher with 1,560 yards and 16 touchdowns.
Prior to Moore’s arrival in 2023, Missouri’s offense ranked 88th nationally, scoring 24.8 points per game. That number jumped to 29th and 32.5 points per game in his first two seasons, before settling at 32nd this season.
Transition and Future Outlook
The timing of Moore’s arrival leaves some uncertainty regarding the immediate future. Defensive coordinator Jesse Bobbit was named interim head coach following Rogers’ departure, but has also been linked to the Iowa State position. The Cougars’ current coaching staff is expected to lead the team in the Idaho Potato Bowl against Utah State on December 22 in Boise.
WSU interim athletic director Jon Haarlow lauded Moore’s qualifications, stating, “Kirby Moore is regarded as one of the top young coaches in college football with proven success throughout multiple levels of his coaching career.” President Cantwell echoed this sentiment, adding, “Coach Moore is the real deal, and exactly who we needed to propel us to the top of the new Pac-12.”
Moore’s brother, Kellen Moore, currently serves as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints, further cementing the family’s presence in the world of football. The Cougars are hopeful that Kirby moore’s leadership will usher in a new era of success for Washington State football.
