Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Casey Woods Named Missouri State Head Football Coach

12/20/2025

43 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Casey Woods is Missouri State University's new head football coach, succeeding Ryan Beard who left for Coastal Carolina.
Woods was offensive coordinator at SMU and signed a five-year contract.
He has coached at Auburn and UAB and led SMU to multiple conference championship appearances.
Woods will be introduced at a January news conference and is expected to help coach SMU in the Holiday Bowl.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA established the Division I Football Championship Subdivision in 1973, reshaping college football dynamics. Missouri State University, which transitioned from NCAA Division II to Division I-AA in 1981, now welcomes Casey Woods as head coach, succeeding Ryan Beard. This coaching change reflects the ongoing trend in college athletics where strategic hires are essential for enhancing competitiveness and recruitment efforts.

1 of 2

Story summary

Casey Woods is Missouri State University's new head football coach, succeeding Ryan Beard who left for Coastal Carolina.
Woods was offensive coordinator at SMU and signed a five-year contract.
He has coached at Auburn and UAB and led SMU to multiple conference championship appearances.
Woods will be introduced at a January news conference and is expected to help coach SMU in the Holiday Bowl.

1 / 2