In a landscape where experience often reigns supreme, Florida Atlantic University is poised to make a bold statement with their next head coaching hire. According to sources close to the program, FAU has zeroed in on Texas Tech offensive coordinator Zach Kittley as their top target, a move that would make the 33-year-old the youngest head coach in the Football Bowl Subdivision.
A Prodigy’s Rise Through the Ranks
Kittley’s meteoric ascent through the coaching ranks has been nothing short of remarkable. A former basketball player at Abilene Christian, he transitioned to football and cut his teeth under the tutelage of innovative offensive mind Kliff Kingsbury at Texas Tech. Starting as a student assistant, Kittley quickly climbed the ladder, earning increasing responsibility in developing the Red Raiders’ high-powered aerial attack.
The Mahomes Connection
Perhaps most notably, Kittley played an integral role in the development of Patrick Mahomes, now a three-time Super Bowl champion and one of the NFL’s most electrifying quarterbacks. Working closely with Kingsbury, he helped mold Mahomes into the record-breaking passer that has taken the league by storm.
“Zach was right there every step of the way with Patrick,” a source familiar with the situation revealed. “His fingerprints are all over that success story.”
Lighting Up Scoreboards Across the Nation
Kittley’s offensive acumen has been on full display in his stints as coordinator, first at FCS Houston Christian, then at Western Kentucky, and most recently back at his alma mater Texas Tech. His schemes have consistently produced some of the most prolific passing attacks in the nation:
- At Western Kentucky in 2021, Kittley’s offense led FBS in passing and finished 2nd in scoring, as quarterback Bailey Zappe shattered single-season records en route to becoming an NFL draft pick.
- In his return to Texas Tech, the Red Raiders have ranked 12th (2022) and 9th (2023) nationally in passing, fueling consecutive eight-win seasons.
The Youthful Gamble
FAU’s decision to target Kittley is not without risk. At just 33 years old, he would become the youngest head coach in the FBS ranks, surpassing the likes of Oklahoma’s Brent Venables and Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham. However, those close to the program believe his innovative approach and proven track record of developing talent could be the shot in the arm the Owls need.
“Is it a gamble? Sure, to some extent,” an FAU insider admitted. “But with risk comes the potential for huge rewards. Zach’s youth and creativity could be exactly what we need to energize this program.”
A New Era in Boca Raton?
The Owls are coming off a disappointing 3-9 campaign under former head coach Tom Herman, going winless in AAC play and struggling to find an identity. Kittley’s arrival would signal a clear shift in philosophy, one centered around an up-tempo, pass-happy offensive approach.
“Buckle up and get ready for some fireworks,” a source close to the team predicted. “This won’t be your father’s FAU team.”
As the college football world eagerly awaits official word on the hire, one thing is abundantly clear: FAU is swinging for the fences. In Zach Kittley, they see a rising star with the potential to not only revolutionize their program but to become one of the game’s premier offensive minds for years to come.
“He’s ready,” a long-time Kittley associate declared. “Zach has been building toward this moment his entire career. FAU has a chance to get in on the ground floor with a future superstar.”
The coming days will determine whether the Owls’ bold gambit pays off, but one thing is certain: The Zach Kittley era in Boca Raton promises to be anything but boring. A new day is dawning for FAU football, and the college football landscape is taking notice.
