Sun Nov 30 05:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Stanford Names Alumnus Tavita Pritchard as New Head Football Coach

STANFORD, CA – Stanford University has announced the hiring of Tavita Pritchard as its new head football coach, marking a significant turning point for the program. The announcement was made Friday, with Pritchard expected to join the Cardinal staff after finishing his duties as the quarterbacks coach for the Washington Commanders.

Pritchard, a former Stanford quarterback and assistant coach, brings a deep connection to the university and a proven track record in developing quarterbacks. He takes over from interim coach Frank Reich, who led the Cardinal to a 4-7 record this season, including a recent upset victory over rival Cal, ending a four-year losing streak.

“Tavita Pritchard is exactly the right head coach at the right time to help us build on the foundation of this season and lead Stanford football to its next great era,” said General Manager Andrew Luck in a statement. Luck spearheaded the search process, which included Athletic Director John Donahoe, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and Stanford President Jonathan Levin.

Pritchard’s hiring represents the first major, full-time move for Luck, who returned to Stanford a year ago as general manager, and a significant early decision for Donahoe, who assumed the role of Athletic Director in July. The pair have a deep connection, Pritchard having been Stanford’s starting quarterback in 2008 before being succeeded by Luck in 2009.

Pritchard boasts impressive offensive credentials, having coached Jayden Daniels during his Offensive Rookie of the Year and Pro Bowl season in 2024. During his previous tenure at Stanford from 2010 to 2022, he earned a reputation as an excellent quarterback coach, mentoring notable players like Kevin Hogan, Davis Mills, and Tanner McKee. He also served as offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2022, coaching standout players like Bryce Love, Walter Little, and J.J. Arcega-Whiteside.

Stanford is currently navigating a challenging period, having struggled to adapt to the evolving landscape of college football. The program hasn’t seen a winning season since 2020 and last played in a bowl game in 2018. Luck was brought back a year ago this week as GM, and recently the program fired coach Troy Taylor after off-field controversaries and asked Reich to coach for a year. Stanford has a solid recruiting class ranked in the top 40 by ESPN.

Notably, Pritchard was the starting quarterback in Stanford’s stunning 24-23 upset victory over No. 2 USC in 2007, solidifying his place in Cardinal football lore. His return as head coach signals a renewed hope for the program as it aims to recapture its former glory.

Pritchard will take the reins as Stanford prepares for its season finale at home against No. 9 Notre Dame on Saturday.

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