Fresno State’s head football coach Jeff Tedford has announced his resignation due to health concerns. The decision comes after a “recent medical check-up” revealed issues that prompted Tedford, 62, to step down. This marks the end of his two successful tenures leading his alma mater’s football program.
Tedford, who attended the Mountain West media days last week in Las Vegas and reported feeling well, shared his decision in a statement. “I have a tremendous amount of pride and passion for Fresno State, and I understand the time and energy necessary to lead at a high level. The players, coaches, and Bulldog supporters deserve the best. Unfortunately, I am not able to sustain the commitment needed to perform at the level required to guide the program,” Tedford stated.
Tim Skipper, the team’s linebackers coach and assistant head coach, will take over as interim head coach for the 2024 season. Skipper has been a part of Fresno State’s coaching staff and previously stepped in for Tedford during the team’s bowl game in December when Tedford was sidelined due to health issues.
Tedford’s coaching career at Fresno State has been marked by significant achievements. He compiled a 45-22 record and won two Mountain West titles over his two stints. Tedford, who played quarterback for Fresno State in 1981 and 1982, was also a finalist for national coaching honors in 2018.
New Fresno State Athletics Director Garrett Klassy praised Tedford’s contributions in a statement: “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. Our goal during this coaching transition is to ensure it is as seamless as possible for our student-athletes and to continue the championship culture that Coach Tedford has established. We are grateful for his endless contributions, wish him the best with his health, and I expect to lean on Coach Tedford during my transition due to his incredible insight and relationships.”
Tedford’s legacy extends beyond Fresno State. He is also the winningest coach in Cal history, boasting an 82-57 record over 11 seasons, during which he led the team to share the Pac-10 title in 2006 and achieve a No. 9 national ranking in 2004. Tedford won three league coach of the year honors—two in the Pac-10 and one in the Mountain West.
Skipper, who played linebacker for Fresno State, has a deep connection to the program. He coached running backs and linebackers at Fresno State from 2006 to 2011 and served as defensive coordinator for three games before returning to the staff with Tedford in 2022.
The Bulldogs are set to open their season on August 31 against the defending national champions, Michigan.
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