Breaking: Jeff Tedford Steps Down as Fresno State Coach

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Jeff Tedford is stepping down as head coach from Fresno State per the school's athletics department.

“It is with sad emotions that following my recent medical check-up, it is clear that due to health concerns, my family and I have decided to step aside as Fresno State’s head coach and allow someone else to lead the Football program.”

Coach Jeff Tedford, Fresno State University

Tim Skipper will serve as the interim coach this season, Skipper was the linebackers coach and assistant head coach under Tedford since 2022. During this past year's New Mexico Bowl, Skipper served as the interim head coach while Tedford tended to health concerns. 

The university's athletic department released a statement on Tedford's time as head coach:

“Coach Tedford’s contributions to Fresno State and the Central Valley have been nothing short of extraordinary. His dedication, passion, and commitment have not only led our football program to numerous championships but also deeply impacted the community.”

Athletic Director Garrett Klassy, Fresno State University

Jeff Tedford's Career at Fresno State

An alumnus of Fresno State, Tedford first became the Bulldogs' coach in 2017 but resigned during the 2019 season for health-related reasons. Tedford rejoined Fresno State as the coach before the 2022 season, after current Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer left to become the coach at Washington.

With a 45-22 record at his alma mater, Tedford has been one of the most successful coaches at Fresno State. In four out of his five years at Fresno State Tedford took the Bulldogs to a Bowl game. During Tedford’s tenure, he led Fresno State to the Mountain West Conference title in 2018 and 2022. 

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After playing quarterback for the Bulldogs in 1981-82, Tedford has been coaching in the Fresno State program starting as a quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator from 1992 to 1997. It was his first job in collegiate coaching. Tedford was the head coach of the Cal Golden Bears from 2002 to 2012 and coached notable NFL players such as potential Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, running back Marshawn Lynch, wide receiver DeSean Jackson, and edge rusher Cameron Jordan. Other notable players include running backs Justin Forsett and Shane Vereen. Tedford coached briefly in the NFL under Lovie Smith in 2014 as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator. 

Future of Program

With Tedford leaving Fresno State for the second time in five years, it will be tough for the Bulldogs to get back on their feet. In a short time span, the program has now lost up-and-coming coaching star DeBoer and Tedford (twice). Time will tell if Skipper can continue the success that Tedford and DeBoer left behind.