Introduction
Joey McGuire is a name increasingly resonating throughout college football—especially within the Big 12 Conference—as a coach who blends high-school roots with collegiate ambition. From his days in Texas high school football to his current role guiding the Texas Tech Red Raiders, McGuire’s journey is one of persistence, connection and transformative coaching.
Early Life & Age
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McGuire was born on August 6, 1971, making him 54 years old as of 2025.
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He hails from Texarkana, Texas, and later earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1995.
Coaching History
High School Coaching
McGuire began his coaching career in Texas high school football, where he built a strong foundation of success:
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1995–1996: Defensive Line Coach at Crowley High School (TX)
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1997–2002: Secondary/DB coach at Cedar Hill High School (TX)
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2003–2016: Head Coach at Cedar Hill HS — during this tenure, McGuire compiled an impressive record of 141-42, led his team to three state championships (2006, 2013, 2014) and established the program as a perennial playoff contender.
His success in the high school ranks earned him induction into the Texas High School Coaches Association Hall of Honor.
Collegiate Coaching – Baylor
In 2017 McGuire made the jump to college football, joining the Baylor Bears staff:
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2017-18: Tight Ends coach at Baylor.
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2019: Promoted to Associate Head Coach and Defensive Ends coach.
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2020-21: Continued as Associate Head Coach, shifted to Outside Linebackers coach.
At Baylor, McGuire helped rebuild the program’s recruiting base in Texas and coached players who went on to the NFL.
Head Coach – Texas Tech
McGuire’s next leap came when he was named the 17th head coach of Texas Tech:
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Announced on November 8, 2021.
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His first full season was 2022, in which Texas Tech posted an 8-5 record and achieved noteworthy wins including against both the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners — marking the first time the Red Raiders defeated both rivals in the same season.
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As of now, his college head-coaching record stands at 31-17 with a bowl record of 2-1.
McGuire’s recruiting acumen has also shown strong results, boosting Texas Tech’s class rankings and transfer portal position—important traits in modern college football success.
Personal Life – Wife & Family
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McGuire is married to Debbie McGuire; the couple has been together for more than three decades.
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They have two children: a daughter, Raegan, and a son, Garret. Raegan graduated from Texas Tech and works as a designer; Garret played quarterback at Baylor and has pursued a coaching path.
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McGuire has credited his wife Debbie with being a grounding influence in his life and career.
Coaching Philosophy & Notable Traits
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McGuire places heavy emphasis on culture, connection, and relational leadership — attributes often noted during his Baylor and Texas Tech tenures.
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His deep Texas roots and success in high school coaching give him a strong recruiting network throughout the state — which he leverages at Texas Tech.
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He often speaks about being the “one constant” in his players’ lives, underscoring stability and accountability as pillars of his coaching style.
Key Milestones & Achievements
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Three Texas high-school state championships at Cedar Hill HS.
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Rapid promotion at Baylor, from position coach to Associate Head Coach in two years.
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Historic wins at Texas Tech: First head coach in program history to defeat both Texas and Oklahoma in same season.
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Secured a new six-year contract with Texas Tech, tying him to the program through 2028.
Looking Ahead
Under McGuire’s leadership, Texas Tech aims to continue its upward trajectory in the Big 12. His strong recruiting classes, transfer portal wins, and high-energy coaching style position the Red Raiders to contend in a competitive conference.
For fans and followers of college football, McGuire is a coach worth watching — both for his personal journey and the program he’s shaping at Texas Tech.
Conclusion
From high school gyms in Texas to the sidelines of a Power 5 program, Joey McGuire’s path combines grassroots coaching, strong relationships, and a clear vision. Married to Debbie, backed by a strong family foundation, and driven by a desire to build winning cultures, he brings more than tactics to the field — he brings identity. For Texas Tech and the wider college football world, his story is still unfolding.
