Tom Herman writes note to Houston players (Photo)
By Carly Regehr
Tom Herman shared a statement alongside his wife about his two years at the University of Houston.
Though Tom Herman adamantly refuted rumors about heading to the University of Texas, that rumor would become true. Throughout a busy Rivalry Week, a handful of coaches were predicted to relocate, including Herman. It was just a matter of time before decided on which school, Power 5 or not, would land him. Under two hours had passed since the termination of Charlie Strong at Texas until Herman was named the next head coach in Austin.
Following a slough of media coverage of Herman’s acceptance, the Cincinnati native revealed his gratitude toward Houston in a statement.
Tom Herman certainly rebuilt a fading AAC program, then painted it as a target for incoming talent, whether it be personnel or player talent.
According to Winsipedia, Texas and Houston have played each other before. Their first meeting was in 1953, of which Texas won first, 28-7. The coaches at that time were Ed Price of Texas and Clyde Lee of Houston. After a 15 year hiatus, Texas and Houston would come together again for another match-up. Houston would get a pseudo taste of revenge in this one, tying the Longhorns, 20-20.
Through 25 games, the Longhorns lead the series 16-7-2 against the Coogs. The last time they played was in 2002, where an undefeated Texas defeated Houston, 41-11. Chris Simms was the quarterback for Texas at the time, while Cedric Benson occupied the backfield for the then-No.3 team in the nation.
With Tom Herman scheduled to travel three hours west to Austin, the Texas Longhorns are getting a fairly good deal. It’s reported that Herman will be at the school for the next five years and he’s due about $5 million per year in a state where taxes are non-existent. As for Houston, the coaching search begins. Some names that should be considered include a soon-to-be fired Mark Helfrich or Derek Mason. Mason, the head coach at Vanderbilt, might be more intrigued by rebuilding Oregon, though.
Next: Tom Herman Press Conference Live Stream
Meanwhile, Tom Herman is set to address Longhorn Nation on Sunday afternoon. At 6:00 p.m. ET, the newly-appointed staff member will be named the university’s third head coach in just 10 years.