In a significant development for college football, Lance Guidry has been appointed as the new defensive coordinator for the Memphis Tigers. This move comes shortly after Guidry’s brief stint at Oregon State, where he was named defensive coordinator just days ago. However, we at 4 Star Sports Media were one of the first outlets to break the story of Guidry’s impending move to Memphis, reporting via exclusive sources that the veteran coach was expected to join the Tigers’ staff. Our timely scoop highlighted the reunion between Guidry and new Memphis head coach Charles Huff, underscoring the rapid changes in coaching landscapes as teams gear up for the 2026 season.
Guidry, a seasoned coach with a proven track record, brings a wealth of experience to Memphis. Born on March 25, 1971, he has held various roles across college football, including head coaching positions at McNeese State from 2016 to 2018 and interim head coach gigs at Miami (Ohio) in 2010 and Western Kentucky in 2012. Most recently, Guidry served as the defensive coordinator at Miami (FL) before being let go after a disappointing 2024 campaign. He then quickly landed at Oregon State on January 7, 2026, but the opportunity to reunite with Huff appears to have swayed him to Memphis.
His defensive philosophies emphasize aggression and turnover creation, traits that have defined his units at multiple stops. At Miami, despite the late-season struggles, Guidry’s defense showed flashes of brilliance, ranking highly in sacks and interceptions during his tenure. Before that, he coordinated defenses at Southeastern Louisiana, Florida Atlantic, and Marshall, where his paths first crossed with Charles Huff.
The history between Lance Guidry and Charles Huff dates back to their time together at Marshall University. In January 2021, Huff, then the newly appointed head coach of the Thundering Herd, hired Guidry as his defensive coordinator and safeties coach. This partnership proved fruitful during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. In 2021, Marshall finished with a 7-6 record, but it was the 2022 campaign that truly showcased their synergy. That year, the Herd went 9-4, including a stunning upset victory over then-No. 8 Notre Dame in South Bend—a 26-21 win that marked one of the biggest shocks of the season. Guidry’s defense was instrumental, allowing just 23.1 points per game and forcing key turnovers in pivotal moments. Huff has often credited Guidry’s schemes for providing the backbone of that success, praising his ability to adapt and motivate players.
This reunion at Memphis could yield substantial benefits for the Tigers, who are looking to rebound under Huff’s leadership after a transitional period. Huff himself was named Memphis’ head coach in late 2025, bringing his high-energy approach from Marshall and a brief stop at Southern Miss. With Guidry on board, the duo can leverage their established chemistry to implement a cohesive defensive strategy quickly—crucial in the fast-paced world of college football recruiting and preparation. Their prior success at Marshall suggests potential for immediate impact: improved tackling, better secondary play, and an aggressive front that disrupts offenses. For Memphis, which competes in the competitive American Athletic Conference, this could translate to more wins, stronger recruiting in the talent-rich Southeast, and a shot at bowl eligibility or even conference contention.
Moreover, Guidry’s experience across FBS and FCS levels adds depth to the staff. He understands the nuances of building defenses with varying resources, which aligns well with Memphis’ ambitions to elevate its program. Fans should expect a unit that’s disciplined yet opportunistic, drawing from the lessons of that memorable Notre Dame upset.
As we at 4 Star Sports Media initially reported, this hire signals Huff’s intent to surround himself with trusted allies to turn around the Tigers. With spring practices on the horizon, all eyes will be on how this partnership evolves in Memphis. The 2026 season promises excitement, and Guidry’s arrival is a key piece of the puzzle.
