Josh Heupel was hired as UCF's 11th head coach on Dec. 5, 2017. He quickly named Randy Shannon as the new defensive coordinator for the Knights. Take a look at what people are saying about UCF's new head coach.
Heupel comes to Orlando after two seasons as the offensive coordinator at Missouri. His Tigers led the SEC and ranked seventh in the nation in total offense, averaging 511.5 yards per game.
"I'm thankful for Josh and his family. He's poured all of his efforts into making Mizzou a better place. He has one of the best football minds in the game and will do a great job leading the UCF program." - Missouri Head Coach, Barry Odom
Under Heupel's tutelage, Missouri quarterback Drew Lock was named First Team All-SEC in 2017, leading the nation with 43 touchdown passes.
"I'm really excited for Coach Heupel and his family. I hate to see him leave, but I know he'll do great things at UCF. It's pretty amazing to think back on how much I've learned in the room and on the field in our two years together. I'll be grateful to him forever for everything he's helped me with." - Missouri Quarterback, Drew Lock
Prior to his time at Missouri, Heupel was the quarterbacks coach and then offensive coordinator at his alma mater, Oklahoma, from 2006-14. He coached current Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Bradford to the Heisman Trophy in 2008.
"Josh Heupel is one of the smartest, brightest football minds I've ever been around. I learned a lot from him when we were together at Oklahoma. He was key in my development as a quarterback. I think UCF is extremely lucky to have someone like him leading their program. Knowing how he cares about his players and knowing how passionate he is about the game of football, I think he will definitely take that program in the right direction." - Minnesota Vikings Quarterback, Sam Bradford
As a player, Heupel led the Sooners to an undefeated 2000 season and a national championship after defeating Florida in the 2001 Orange Bowl.
"Coming from a coaching family combined with his knowledge and passion for the game, his tireless work ethic and especially his leadership skills, I knew Josh would make a great head coach someday. UCF got a good one in Josh Heupel!" - Chuck Long, Oklahoma QB Coach/Offensive Coordinator, 2000-05
The hiring of Heupel and Shannon made noise on social media. Former UCF Knights came out to celebrate the move.
Great job, @UCFDannyWhite can't wait to meet @coachjoshheupel and Coach Shannon! I'm sure they'll keep this @UCF_Football program in the right direction!!
— Josh Robinson (@JROB_2one) December 5, 2017
Let's do it then coach ????
— Terrance Plummer II (@KnightBred_41) December 5, 2017
A number of national media members commended the hires by UCF Vice President and Direcor of Athletics Dr. Daniel J. White.
Not only did UCF athletic director Danny White hire new coach Josh Heupel, he also hired new defensive coordinator Randy Shannon. That's a big deal because Shannon is a good coach, but maybe more importantly, has recruiting ties across the state. https://t.co/53yDFpMxjF
— Andrea Adelson (@aadelsonESPN) December 5, 2017
UCF is crushing this coaching search, and Randy Shannon going there is enormous.
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) December 5, 2017
Heupel & Shannon together make sense and will continue to make the FSU & Florida jobs tougher than they used to be! @UCF remains a factor in the Sunshine State.
— Tim Brando (@TimBrando) December 5, 2017
Randy Shannon to UCF should help school better exploit recruiting opportunities coming off undefeated season. Smart hire.
— Darren Heitner (@DarrenHeitner) December 5, 2017
Even the Mayor of Orlando made sure to recognize the new staff on Twitter.
We're happy to have you in Orlando, @coachjoshheupel. #ChargeOn https://t.co/EWADbTMr9W
— Mayor Buddy Dyer (@orlandomayor) December 5, 2017