After a near two-month long search, Texas Southern University has officially named Houston Oilers legend, Cris Dishman as their new head football coach. TSU Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Dr. Kevin Granger announced the hiring of Dishman this past Friday.
“Cris Dishman is an experienced football coach whose accomplishments as a player and coach make him an excellent choice to lead our football program into the future,” said VP Dr. Kevin Granger.
“Even more important, he is a man of character who, in his own words, ‘seeks to make his players into better brothers, fathers, and husbands.’ I appreciate the Board of Regents’ bold, strategic approach to finding new opportunities to elevate Texas Southern University. I look forward to working with Coach Dishman to bring new levels of success to TSU Football.”
Dishman is a two-time NFL Pro-Bowl recipient, who comes to TSU after 13 successful years in the NFL and 19 years of coaching experience at the collegiate and professional levels.
After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Purdue University, he was drafted by the Houston Oilers in 1988. Dishman played spent eight years with the Oilers, two years with the Washington Commanders and Kansas City Chiefs, his final season with the Minnesota Vikings.
Dishman’s appointment comes after nearly two months of growing concerns for TSU Tigers next head football coach. Initially, it appeared the university would name former Alcorn State coach Fred McNair to fill the position, but the TSU Board of Regents delayed naming a coach following three scheduled meetings.
Athletic Director Kevin Granger explained in a statement last year about the decision to continue its search:
“The hiring of a head football coach is a strategic decision that cannot be taken lightly. The Board of Regents and I engaged in positive discussions over the holidays. I am excited about our new leadership’s bold, strategic direction for Texas Southern University.”
“I will be taking a few additional days to consider candidates for the coaching vacancy and will work closely with interim president Dr. Mary Evans Sias and the board to announce a hiring decision shortly.”
Dishman spent his last two coaching seasons as Defensive Coordinator of the XFL’s Las Vegas Vipers. Prior to joining the Vipers, he spent the 2022 season as the Defensive Coordinator for the United States Football League’s New Jersey Generals.
During his lone season with the Generals, the team boasted the top rushing defense in the USFL. His team also ranked second in rushing defense and interceptions, and third in scoring defense.
“I want everyone in Tigerland to know that we’re going to put together a good team, a good staff, and everyone has to do their job and be all in for TSU football,” Dishman said.
The TSU Tigers will open the season against the Rice Owls September 7th, 2024 in Houston, Texas.
