Key Highlights
- The article highlights the struggles of TCU’s football program under Andy Avalos and new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles.
- BYU’s dominant performance against TCU in Provo showcased their superior preparation, coaching, physicality, focus, speed, and discipline.
- TCU has not been competitive in three consecutive seasons, with the offense regressing as key players leave the program.
- The article criticizes TCU’s coaching decisions and the lack of consistency in offensive performance.
TCU’s Struggles Under Avalos and Briles
Anthony North’s article, published on November 16, 2025, delves into the challenges facing TCU’s football program under head coach Andy Avalos and new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles. The piece underscores the decline in TCU’s performance over recent seasons, particularly their struggles against a dominant BYU team.
BYU’s Dominant Performance
In the game held on November 12, 2025, at Provo, BYU demonstrated overwhelming superiority over TCU. The Cougars scored on their first seven drives of the game, showcasing their preparation and coaching acumen. BYU’s quarterback Bear Bachmeier excelled, completing 70% of his passes for 296 yards and a touchdown while adding 59 rushing yards and another score with his legs.
TCU’s Offensive Performance
The article details TCU’s poor offensive showing. The Horned Frogs were held off the scoreboard in the first quarter, a recurring issue in their seven conference games that season. TCU’s third-down success rate was abysmal, with only one successful conversion out of ten attempts.
Key players like Josh Hoover threw two interceptions, with one leading to a touchdown for BYU. Additionally, TCU struggled to convert red-zone opportunities into points, kicking field goals after drives stalled inside the 15-yard line.
Player Departures and Their Impact
The article also highlights how TCU players who left the program thrived in new environments. Jordan Hudson, a former wide receiver for TCU, became the leading receiver for SMU, helping them secure consecutive trips to the ACC Championship and College Football Playoff. Quarterback Chandler Morris led Virginia to an ACC Title contender status, while running back Cam Cook topped the nation with 130.4 rushing yards per game at Jacksonville State.
Implications for TCU’s Future
The article suggests that TCU’s fall from grace is a significant concern, especially given their prospects of facing four consecutive losses to close out the season. This performance has raised questions about the effectiveness of Avalos and Briles’ coaching strategies. The piece concludes by emphasizing the need for improvement in both offensive coordination and overall team discipline.
In summary, TCU’s football program faces a critical juncture with their future success hanging on their ability to address current challenges and improve their performance moving forward. The article underscores the pressure on Avalos and Briles to reverse the trend of declining performance and return TCU to competitive status in the Big 12 Conference.
