Fresno State is turning to a two-time FCS champion as its next head coach.
The school announced Wednesday afternoon that it had hired USC assistant coach Matt Entz. The former North Dakota State coach spent one season with the Trojans after coaching the Bison for five seasons after Chris Klieman became head coach at Kansas State.
“I am deeply honored to join the Fresno State family as head football coach. This university’s rich tradition of excellence, both on and off the field, aligns perfectly with my values ​​and coaching philosophy,” Entz said in a statement . “My family and I are excited to be part of the vibrant Valley community and contribute to the university’s mission. I am committed to leading our student-athletes with integrity, resilience, dedication and selflessness, and strive to success in the classroom, on the field, and in life. Together we will build on the strong foundation that exists and strive for new heights.
NDSU won two national titles under Entz and made one more title game appearance. The Bison went undefeated at 16-0 in 2019 before winning the title again with a 14-1 record in 2021. The following season, NDSU went 12-3 and lost the FCS title game to Fresno State.
Entz’s move to USC came as the Trojans revamped their defensive staff. After firing defensive coordinator Ryan Grinch near the end of the 2023 season, USC hired former UCLA coordinator D’Anton Lynn to lead the defense.
Fresno State was led by interim coach Tim Skipper in 2024. Skipper took over in July after coach Jeff Tedford said he had to resign due to health reasons. The Bulldogs went 6-6 after losing three of their last four games of the season. If Fresno State loses its bowl game, the school will have its first losing season since 2019 heading into its final season of Mountain West play. The Bulldogs are among a group of MWC schools that will join Washington State and Oregon in the Pac-12 in 2026.
