Fresno State’s head football coach, Jeff Tedford, has announced his resignation, citing health concerns following a recent medical check-up. Tedford, 62, had recently assured his well-being during Mountain West media days in Las Vegas.
Tim Skipper, currently the linebackers coach and assistant head coach, will take over as the interim head coach for the 2024 season.
“I have immense pride and passion for Fresno State,” Tedford stated. “Leading at a high level demands significant time and energy. Regrettably, I cannot sustain the commitment required to guide the program effectively. Our players, coaches, and supporters deserve the best.”
Tedford praised the existing coaching staff’s continuity and expressed confidence in their ability to guide the student-athletes both on and off the field.
Tedford missed the team’s bowl game in December due to health issues, with Skipper stepping in for the game. He had also taken a break from coaching after the 2019 season due to heart-related problems but returned in 2022. During his two stints at Fresno State, Tedford achieved a record of 45-22, secured two Mountain West titles, and was a finalist for national coaching honors in 2018. He played quarterback for Fresno State in 1981 and 1982.
“Coach Tedford’s contributions to Fresno State and the Central Valley have been extraordinary,” said Garrett Klassy, the new Fresno State athletics director. “His dedication has led our football program to numerous championships and deeply impacted the community. Our goal is to ensure a seamless coaching transition and maintain the championship culture Tedford established. We wish him the best with his health and will seek his guidance during my transition.”
Tedford is also the winningest coach in Cal history, with an 82-57 record over 11 seasons. He led the school to a shared Pac-10 title in 2006 and a No. 9 national ranking in 2004, earning three league coach of the year honors.
Skipper, a former Fresno State linebacker, has coached running backs and linebackers at the school from 2006 to 2011 and served as defensive coordinator for three games. He rejoined the staff with Tedford in 2022.
