BREAKING: The Stanford Cardinal has officially named Tavita Pritchard as their new head football coach, just announced on Friday afternoon. This pivotal decision comes just before the Cardinal’s final game of the season at home against No. 9 Notre Dame.
Pritchard, who previously made history with one of the greatest victories in Stanford’s history in 2007, will succeed Frank Reich, the interim head coach who took over after Troy Taylor was dismissed amid off-field controversies. The Cardinal enters this weekend with a record of 4-7, marking its highest win total in five seasons.
In a press release, Stanford confirmed that Reich will continue as a senior advisor to Pritchard, ensuring a smooth transition. Pritchard, aged 38, is set to become the 37th head coach in the program’s storied history. He is a proud 2009 Stanford graduate and currently serves as the quarterbacks coach for the Washington Commanders.
Pritchard’s appointment is timely, as Stanford looks to build on the foundation established this season. He will officially take over at Stanford following the Commanders’ game against Denver on Sunday, with a news conference scheduled for Tuesday to introduce him formally.
“Winning in college football today requires a leader of men who can build and motivate teams,” said Andrew Luck, Stanford’s general manager. “Tavita Pritchard is exactly the right head coach at the right time to help us build on the foundation of this season.”
Pritchard is no stranger to Stanford’s legacy. He captured national attention on October 6, 2007, when he led the Cardinal to a stunning 24-23 victory over No. 2 ranked USC, a game still hailed as one of college football’s biggest upsets. He capped that victory with a thrilling touchdown pass with just 49 seconds left on the clock.
During his collegiate career, Pritchard played in 31 games, starting 20 and throwing for 2,865 yards and 15 touchdowns. His last appearance was in the 2009 Sun Bowl, where he stepped in for an injured Luck, showcasing his commitment to the program.
“Stanford is a place like no other, and my family and I are full of gratitude to be returning home,” said Pritchard. “I have a clear vision for the hard work and tenacity it will take to build a championship program.”
Pritchard’s NFL experience as a quarterbacks coach has prepared him for this moment. He mentored talented quarterbacks like Jayden Daniels and Jacoby Brissett during his time with the Commanders, contributing to the team’s run to the 2024 NFC Championship Game.
Reich expressed enthusiasm about working with Pritchard, emphasizing the importance of continuing Stanford’s mission of success. Stanford has not played in a bowl game since 2018, marking the end of a decade-long streak.
As Stanford prepares for a new era under Pritchard’s leadership, fans and players alike are eager to witness the transformation of the Cardinal football program. The university community is rallying behind this decision, hopeful for a return to championship contention in the seasons ahead.
Stay tuned for further updates as Stanford transitions into this exciting new chapter in its football history.
