Fresno State hires USC Trojans' Matt Entz as next head coach

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fresno State has reached a deal to hire USC linebackers coach Matt Entz as its next coach.

The school announced the hire on Wednesday, calling it a new era of Bulldog football.

In a statement, Entz wrote that he is deeply honored to join the University's rich tradition of excellence.

It is something he says perfectly aligns with his values and coaching philosophy.

Entz won two national titles during his time as head coach at North Dakota State.

From 2019 to 2023, his teams had a record of 60-11.

Per ESPN, it will be a five-year deal for the 52-year-old from Waterloo, Iowa.

That means he will be the one to lead the Bulldogs into the Pac-12 in 2026.

Garrett Klassy, the athletic director for Fresno State, reacted to Entz's hiring in a statement, writing:

"Matt Entz is a proven winner with a championship pedigree, consistently leading his teams to success on the field. He is a leader of people who values growth both on and off the field. Beyond his impressive football accomplishments, Matt and his family embody the core values of integrity, grit, hard work, and selflessness that define what it means to be a Bulldog. We are confident that they will make meaningful contributions to our University, city, and the entire Valley."

Klassy went on to thank Tim Skipper, who has served as the interim head coach for the team after Jeff Tedford's departure in July.

"Tim's efforts have been instrumental in maintaining the high standards of excellence we uphold at Fresno State," wrote Klassy.

It's unclear what Entz's hiring will mean for Skipper, who led Fresno State to a record of 6-6 after Jeff Tedford abruptly stepped down before the season.

While the 'Dogs await news of its Bowl Game, players continue to leave the team.

Running back Malik Sherrod was the latest player to put his name into the transfer portal.

He joins quarterback Mikey Keene, wide receiver Jalen Moss, and close to a dozen other players who plan to leave the Valley.

For sports updates, follow Stephen Hicks on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.