Oregon State Appoints Alabama’s JaMarcus Shephard as Head Coach
Oregon State University has made a significant move by appointing JaMarcus Shephard as its next head coach for the football program. Shephard, previously Alabama’s co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, will take on this new role as the Beavers aim to rejuvenate their football culture.
About JaMarcus Shephard
JaMarcus Shephard, who hails from Fort Wayne, Indiana, has a solid coaching background. The 42-year-old has never held a head coach position before but has extensive experience as an assistant at various high-profile programs. Notably, he worked under Kalen DeBoer at both Washington and Alabama.
A Promising Future for Oregon State Football
- Shephard’s hiring was confirmed on a Friday, along with a five-year contract.
- He will be officially introduced during a press conference scheduled for Tuesday at noon.
- The hiring committee was impressed by his energized vision for the team.
Scott Barnes, the athletic director at OSU, expressed enthusiasm about Shephard’s appointment. He praised Shephard’s character and his ability to connect with student-athletes. “His values align perfectly as an exceptional leader,” Barnes noted.
Coaching Experience and Achievements
Shephard has a noteworthy résumé as an offensive career coach, particularly in developing elite wide receivers. Prior to his time in Alabama, he served in various capacities, including:
- Passing Game Coordinator and Co-Offensive Coordinator at Purdue.
- Assistant Head Coach and Co-Offensive Coordinator at Washington.
Under his guidance, Washington achieved a remarkable feat in the 2023 season, boasting the No. 2 passing offense in the nation, averaging 36 points per game. His coaching pedigree includes successfully recruiting five-star prospects like Ryan Williams to Alabama.
Challenges Ahead
Shephard faces the immediate challenge of retaining current players at OSU. A new NCAA transfer portal rule allows a 15-day window for athletes to consider transferring, which opens shortly after his hiring. This transition period is critical as he aims to maintain the existing roster while potentially incorporating familiar faces from his previous coaching tenures.
This appointment marks a new chapter in Oregon State football history, as Shephard becomes the first Black head coach of the program. His predecessors in interim roles prior, Cory Hall and Kefense Hynson, did not hold the permanent position.
Upcoming Game and Context
The Beavers, currently struggling with a 2-9 record, are preparing for their final match of the season against Washington State, where interim coach Robb Akey will lead the team. The game is scheduled for:
- Opponent: Washington State
- Date: Saturday, Nov. 29
- Time: 3:30 p.m. PT
- Location: Martin Stadium, Pullman, WA
As Oregon State transitions into a new era under JaMarcus Shephard, hope surrounds the program for a revival in the competitive landscape of college football.
