Texas Tech’s Rob Greene Promoted to Co-Defensive Coordinator | Red Raider Football

LUBBOCK, Texas – Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire announced Tuesday the promotion of safeties coach Rob Greene to co-defensive coordinator. Greene will continue to lead the Red Raider safeties while taking on expanded responsibilities within the defensive staff, working alongside defensive coordinator Shiel Wood.

A Rising Leader in College Football

According to McGuire, Greene’s promotion recognizes his significant contributions to the team. “Coach Greene has been a tremendous addition to our defensive staff and is worthy of an elevated role with our program,” McGuire stated. “His experience teaching this defense and ability to identify and develop players is a great asset for our program as we continue to set a new standard for Red Raider Football.”

Familiar Territory

This move reunites Greene with Wood, as the two previously coached together at Tulane in 2023 and Wofford in 2017. Greene joined the Texas Tech staff prior to the 2025 campaign after a year back at Tulane in 2024. His recent success includes being selected for the AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute, a program focused on developing future leaders in the coaching profession.

Did You Know? Texas Tech recorded the largest year-by-year improvement for both scoring and total yards allowed per game by any FBS program since 2000 this past season.

A History of Championship Contention

Greene has been part of teams competing for conference championships in each of the last three seasons. Tulane appeared in two American Athletic Conference championship games during his tenure, and the Red Raiders won the Big 12 title this past season, earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. Over the past three seasons, Greene’s teams have achieved a combined record of 32 wins, including a 23-2 mark in regular-season conference games.

Defensive Turnaround

The Red Raiders’ defense saw significant improvement with Greene’s arrival, alongside the promotion of cornerbacks coach Darcel McBath. Texas Tech recorded 17 interceptions, the most since 2008 and the third-highest total since joining the Big 12 Conference in 1996. Opponents were limited to an average of 190.1 passing yards per game, the lowest since 2007.

Expert Insight: Greene’s rapid ascent through the coaching ranks, coupled with his consistent presence on successful teams, suggests a strong understanding of defensive strategy and player development. His familiarity with Defensive Coordinator Wood could lead to a seamless integration of new ideas and approaches.

Looking Ahead

The Red Raiders will return rising senior Brenden Jordan and junior John Curry as starters at the “star” position next season. Cole Wisniewski, an All-Big 12 honorable mention selection, will depart to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rob Greene’s new role?

Rob Greene has been promoted to co-defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, where he will continue to coach the safeties and assist Defensive Coordinator Shiel Wood.

Where have Greene and Wood coached together previously?

Rob Greene and Shiel Wood have previously coached together at Tulane in 2023 and Wofford in 2017.

What was the impact of Greene and McBath on the Texas Tech secondary?

The Texas Tech secondary saw a noticeable improvement, recording 17 interceptions – the most since 2008 – and limiting opponents to 190.1 passing yards per game, the lowest average since 2007.

How might this coaching change impact the Red Raiders’ defensive performance in the upcoming season?