Just in: BYU Football has officially announced the hiring of former Heisman Trophy winner Ty Detmer as the program’s new offensive coordinator. Detmer, who spent a significant portion of his career at BYU both as a player and….

Just In: BYU Football Announces Hiring of Heisman Trophy Winner Ty Detmer as New Offensive Coordinator

 

PROVO, Utah — In a major move aimed at revitalizing the offense, BYU Football has officially announced the hiring of former Heisman Trophy winner Ty Detmer as the program’s new offensive coordinator. Detmer, who is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in college football history, will return to the school where he made his name both as a player and a mentor to countless aspiring athletes.

 

The announcement comes as BYU looks to rebound after a challenging 2024 season, where offensive struggles were a major factor in the team’s inconsistency. Detmer’s deep ties to the university, his experience in both the college and professional ranks, and his history of success make him a natural fit to lead the offensive unit into a new era.

 

### A Storied Career at BYU

 

Ty Detmer’s association with BYU is legendary. As a player, Detmer rewrote the record books during his time as the Cougars’ quarterback from 1987 to 1991. Most notably, Detmer won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 1990, a remarkable achievement that solidified his place as one of the game’s all-time greats. During his tenure at BYU, Detmer threw for over 15,000 yards, 121 touchdowns, and led the team to an impressive 29-10 record.

 

His success at the collegiate level was not just about statistics; it was about revolutionizing the way the game was played. Under head coach LaVell Edwards, Detmer was the centerpiece of the famed “Air Raid” offense, which took full advantage of his skill set as a quick decision-maker and a precise passer. He led the Cougars to a national ranking in 1991 and helped transform the program into a perennial powerhouse.

 

Detmer’s legacy at BYU was further cemented when he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2012, a fitting recognition of his immense contribution to the game and his alma mater.

 

### Transition to Coaching

 

Following a successful 14-year career in the NFL, where Detmer played for the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, and San Francisco 49ers, among others, he made the transition to coaching. His first major coaching role came in 2005 when he returned to BYU as the quarterbacks coach. He spent several years mentoring the next generation of Cougar quarterbacks, including standout players like Max Hall, who led the team to an undefeated season in 2009.

 

Detmer’s coaching philosophy has always been centered on developing quarterbacks who not only excel in the passing game but also thrive in the high-pressure moments that define college football. His intimate knowledge of the game’s mental and physical demands has made him a respected figure in coaching circles.

 

In 2017, Detmer took on the role of offensive coordinator for BYU, a position he held for two seasons. During his tenure, the team experienced some ups and downs offensively, with flashes of brilliance tempered by periods of inconsistency. Detmer’s coaching style was often praised for its emphasis on player development and its commitment to an up-tempo, pass-heavy system. However, despite some notable successes, the Cougars struggled to find sustained offensive rhythm, leading to his departure from the position after the 2017 season.

 

### A New Chapter for BYU

 

Now, after a few years away from the program, Detmer is returning to BYU with a renewed focus on revitalizing the team’s offensive identity. The Cougars have struggled offensively in recent years, especially in 2024, where they finished with one of the lower-ranked offenses in the nation. With the program’s aspirations to return to national prominence, BYU is hoping that Detmer’s wealth of experience and proven track record can inject new life into the offense.

 

“I’m thrilled to be back at BYU and to have the opportunity to contribute to a program that has meant so much to me over the years,” Detmer said in a statement following the announcement. “We have a great group of players here, and I’m looking forward to working with them to build an offense that is dynamic, efficient, and exciting to watch. I believe in the talent we have, and together, we’ll work to bring BYU football back to the level that Cougar fans expect.”

 

### Fans and Alumni React

 

The announcement of Detmer’s return has been met with an outpouring of excitement from both fans and alumni alike. For many, Detmer is not just a former player but a symbol of what BYU football stands for: excellence, innovation, and a commitment to pushing the limits of what’s possible.

 

“Ty Detmer was the heart and soul of the program when I was at BYU, and I couldn’t be more excited to see him return,” said former BYU wide receiver and current NFL player, Austin Collie. “He has a deep understanding of the game and a unique ability to connect with players. His return is exactly what this program needs.”

 

BYU’s decision to bring back a beloved figure like Detmer is seen as a bold move to recapture the magic that once made the Cougars a top-tier program in college football. While there’s work to be done, the enthusiasm surrounding his hiring is palpable.

 

### Looking Ahead

 

The future of BYU football looks promising with Ty Detmer at the helm of the offense. With his wealth of experience and a reputation as one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game, Detmer is primed to lead BYU into a new era of offensive success. As the program prepares for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on the offense as it attempts to build on Detmer’s legacy and return to its high-flying, pass-first roots.