### Missouri State Bears Football Welcomes Casey Woods as New Head Coach - Missouri State University has officially appointed Casey Woods, previously the offensive coordinator at Southern Methodist University (SMU), as the 23rd head football coach in the program's history. This decision comes as the Bears transition into a new era following the tenure of Ryan Beard, marking a significant step for the team as they aim to build on their recent successes in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) [https://www.ktlo.com/2025/12/19/casey-woods-named-missouri-state-head-football-coach]. ### Overview of the Coaching Transition 1. **Background of Casey Woods**: - Woods, 40, has spent the last four seasons at SMU, where he played a pivotal role in the team's offensive strategies [https://www.ozarkssportszone.com/2025/12/19/missouri-state-names-casey-woods-as-head-football-coach]. 2. **Successor to Ryan Beard**: - He succeeds Ryan Beard, who was the second head coach in Missouri State's FBS history. This change is part of the university's efforts to enhance its football program [https://www.underdogdynasty.com/conference-usa/41872/missouri-state-to-hire-smu-oc-casey-woods-as-head-coach]. 3. **Contract Details**: - Reports indicate that Missouri State is finalizing a five-year deal with Woods, emphasizing the university's commitment to long-term growth and stability within the football program [https://www.espn.ph/college-football/story/_/id/47348406/sources-missouri-state-finalizing-hire-casey-woods-coach]. ### Evidence of Coaching Impact - **Previous Performance**: - Under Woods' leadership at SMU, the team experienced notable offensive improvements, which contributed to their successful campaigns in the FBS. This background suggests that Woods could bring a similar level of success to Missouri State [https://www.al.com/sports/2025/12/former-auburn-uab-staffer-hired-as-head-coach-at-missouri-state.html]. - **Bowl Game Participation**: - Missouri State is set to participate in its first-ever FBS bowl game, highlighting the program's recent achievements and the potential for further growth under Woods' guidance [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/reports-mostate-football-eyeing-smu-213353465.html]. ### Conclusion and Future Outlook - **Strategic Direction**: - The hiring of Casey Woods represents a strategic move for Missouri State as they look to capitalize on their recent successes and establish a competitive edge in college football. - **Key Points**: 1. Casey Woods brings valuable experience from SMU, where he was instrumental in offensive development. 2. His appointment follows the departure of Ryan Beard, indicating a shift in the program's direction. 3. The five-year contract reflects Missouri State's commitment to building a robust football program. In summary, the Missouri State Bears are poised for a promising future with Casey Woods at the helm, as they aim to enhance their competitive stature in college football [https://www.newsday.com/sports/college/college-football/missouri-state-bears-head-coach-casey-woods-i41525].