Oregon State hired Alabama co-offensive coordinator JaMarcus Shephard as its next head football coach, the school announced Friday.
ESPN reports that Shephard will receive a five-year deal. No financial terms were disclosed.
‘I’m honored to lead the Oregon State University football program and to join a community that cares so deeply about its student-athletes,’ Shephard, who will be introduced on Tuesday, said in a statement. ‘We will build a culture rooted in toughness, integrity, and relentless effort, and I’m excited to get to work with our players, staff, and supporters to write the next great chapter of Beaver football.’
This season, Alabama is averaging 33.8 points, ranking sixth in the Southeastern Conference, with its strength being its passing attack led by quarterback Ty Simpson (2,934 yards, 22 TD, 4 INT).
Shephard replaces Trent Bray, who was fired last month after the Beavers started this season with seven straight losses and posted a 5-14 record in his two seasons at the school. Shephard has also coached at Western Kentucky, Washington State, and Purdue.
Oregon State (2-9) finishes its 2025 season on Saturday with a road game at Washington State. Alabama (9-2, 6-1 SEC) will reach the SEC Championship game if it beats rival Auburn on Saturday in the Iron Bowl.