BREAKING NEWS: Texas Tech Offensive Coordinator Mack Leftwich Rejects Jaw-Dropping $3 Million Offer from Ohio State Buckeyes

LUBBOCK, TX – July 24, 2025 – In a move that has ignited a firestorm of speculation and celebration across college football, Texas Tech Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach Mack Leftwich has reportedly turned down a staggering $3 million offer from the formidable Ohio State Buckeyes. Despite the eye-popping figure and the undeniable prestige of joining one of the most storied and successful programs in college football history, Leftwich chose loyalty and the burgeoning vision of the Red Raiders over what would have been a significant professional leap.

The audacious bid from Columbus was a clear and aggressive attempt to lure one of the sport’s rising offensive minds, particularly one lauded for his innovative schemes and his uncanny ability to develop quarterbacks. However, Leftwich’s decision to remain in Lubbock underscores a profound belief in the current trajectory of the Red Raiders program and a personal dedication that transcends purely financial incentives.

In a brief, yet powerful, statement released by Red Raiders Athletics, Leftwich said:

“The Red Raiders isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. The culture we’ve built here, the people, the players—this is where I want to be. The rivalry means everything, and I’d rather be on the right side of it. We are building something truly special in Lubbock, and my commitment to this program, these young men, and this passionate fanbase is unwavering. We have unfinished business to attend to here.”

The news, initially circulating as a rumor among coaching insiders and later confirmed by multiple national sports outlets, has sent reverberations across the college football landscape, particularly within the Big 12 and Big Ten conferences. The Buckeyes’ aggressive pursuit of Leftwich was a stark indication of their desire to inject his renowned offensive creativity and proven track record of quarterback development into their already potent offensive arsenal. The $3 million figure, an exceptionally high annual salary for a coordinator, not only highlights Leftwich’s rapidly ascending value in the coaching world but also the increasingly cutthroat nature of the coaching carousel.

Sources familiar with the negotiations, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that Ohio State presented an incredibly attractive package, including a prominent role in their offensive structure, a substantial increase in salary, and access to elite recruiting resources. However, Leftwich’s ultimate decision was deeply rooted in his belief in Head Coach Joey McGuire’s long-term vision for Texas Tech and the strong, authentic bond he has forged with the current Red Raiders team and the Lubbock community. His relatively recent arrival in Lubbock has been marked by a renewed sense of purpose and a palpable connection with the enthusiastic fanbase.

Under Leftwich’s guidance, the Red Raiders’ offense has shown remarkable evolution, particularly in its efficiency, explosiveness, and quarterback play. His meticulous game planning, ability to adapt schemes to player strengths, and his demanding, yet player-centric, coaching style have clearly resonated with the team, leading to a more disciplined and dynamic offensive unit. His decision to stay is a monumental victory for Head Coach McGuire and the entire Texas Tech program, signaling a new era of stability and sustained commitment from their key coaching staff.

The Ohio State Buckeyes, perennially a national championship contender, are known for their relentless ambition to secure top-tier coaching talent. After a season marked by [hypothetical reason for seeking a new OC, e.g., a desire for more consistent offensive production or a specific scheme fit for their evolving quarterback room], the Buckeyes were keen to make a significant coaching splash that would underscore their continued pursuit of national titles. Leftwich, with his burgeoning reputation and demonstrated success in developing offensive talent, was reportedly at the very top of their highly selective wishlist.

However, Leftwich’s decision to spurn such a lucrative offer speaks volumes about the environment and loyalty he perceives within the Texas Tech Red Raiders organization. While the financial aspect is always a significant consideration in professional sports, sources close to Leftwich indicate that his deep connection to the program, his comfort with the established culture under Coach McGuire, the enthusiastic support from the athletic department, and the exciting opportunity to build a consistent winner in the Big 12 were paramount. The unique camaraderie within the Red Raiders coaching staff and the unwavering commitment to a long-term vision in Fayetteville likely outweighed the allure of a new challenge and a larger paycheck at a traditional powerhouse.

“Coach Leftwich is not just a strategic genius; he’s a true leader who genuinely cares about his players,” said a prominent Red Raiders player, who requested anonymity to speak freely. “He’s invested in our growth and understands what it takes to win. Knowing he’s staying confirms everything we believe about this program. He’s a huge reason why we feel we can achieve anything.”

His decision has not only won widespread admiration from the Red Raiders faithful but has also sent a clear message across the Big 12 and beyond: Texas Tech is building something truly special, and its key architects are fully committed to the mission. The news has been met with a collective roar of approval and widespread celebration from the Texas Tech fanbase, who had grown increasingly anxious about the possibility of losing a pivotal offensive strategist. Social media platforms were abuzz with messages praising Leftwich’s loyalty and commitment to the “Wreck ‘Em Tech” spirit. For Buckeyes fans, the rejection is undoubtedly a bitter pill to swallow, highlighting the evolving landscape where even substantial financial offers may not be enough to sway coaches deeply committed to their current programs and a shared vision.

This decision also has broader implications for the escalating salaries of assistant coaches in college football. The $3 million offer to a coordinator sets a new, albeit rejected, benchmark for what elite programs are willing to pay to secure and retain top-tier talent. Leftwich’s refusal, despite the record-setting sum, suggests that factors beyond pure economics—such as loyalty, established relationships, a belief in a program’s long-term vision, and the opportunity to build from the ground up—are increasingly influencing coaching decisions, especially for those already in highly desirable positions within stable and ambitious organizations.

For Mack Leftwich, the focus now returns squarely to the upcoming season. With a talented roster at his disposal and an established offensive system, expectations for the Red Raiders’ offense and overall program will be exceptionally high. His decision to remain in Lubbock reinforces the perception of stability and strength within the program, sending a clear message to recruits, players, and opponents alike: the Red Raiders are building something enduring, and their key architects are fully committed to its continued evolution and success. The Big 12, and indeed the entire college football world, will be watching closely to see the dividends of this pivotal decision unfold on the field.