Football

Warm welcome expected for head coach Tom Herman

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Despite an overall record of 7-5 this season, the Cougars expect a major improvement in 2015 with the addition of Ohio State offensive coordinator Tom Herman. | Justin Tijerina/The Cougar

The Cougars are busy in preparation for their trip to the 2015 Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, but can’t help looking farther ahead to the future after UH hired Ohio State offensive coordinator Tom Herman to replace head coach Tony Levine next season.

Houston defensive coordinator David Gibbs took over the Cougars after the removal of head coach Tony Levine and will remain the interim head coach through their bowl trip. Herman will then take the helm after both teams have finished their postseason runs and the players are excited for the upcoming leadership change.

“Coming from a prestigious program like Ohio State, Herman has a lot of promise and he’s having a lot of success himself as he’s about to take them to the playoffs,” said junior running back Kenneth Farrow. “Watching his team play, they’ve got an explosive offense every year and a bunch of good players. We’re just excited to meet him and get things going.”

As an offensive coordinator, Herman looks to take advantage of the talents established in Houston as he did with the Ohio State offense. Farrow, as well as junior receiver Deontay Greenberry take note of what Herman has been able to do and are ready for his coaching.

“Ohio State is looking pretty good right now,” Greenberry said. “The whole team is pumped up about Herman coming in and we’re excited to meet him.”

The other side of the team isn’t worried about Herman showing a bias to the offensive players, despite his current role as an offensive coordinator. The Houston defense anticipates the change will warrant benefits to the entire team as it will grow to a more cohesive unit.

“We usually focus on our side of the ball,” said junior safety Adrian McDonald. “But when Herman comes in, it’ll be good to have a steady person overlooking everything and making sure everything is running smoothly.”

The Cougars hit the road on Jan. 2 for Fort Worth to take on Pittsburgh in the Armed Forces Bowl as the Ohio State Buckeyes take on the Alabama Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl. Although Herman is still with the Buckeyes, Farrow and the Cougars are already showing a familial bond with the offensive coordinator.

“We’ll be watching and wishing him the best of luck.”

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