All of a sudden, Josh Pastner is the old man at the table.
The University of Memphis announced late Thursday that Mike Norvell — 34-year-old Mike Norvell — will succeed Justin Fuente as head coach of the Tiger football program. Norvell has spent the last four seasons as offensive coordinator at Arizona State under head coach Todd Graham. (The Sun Devils have gone 6-6 this season and await a bowl bid.) Norvell also served under Graham at Pitt (2011) and Tulsa (2007-10). He played wide receiver at Central Arkansas, catching more than 200 passes for more than 2,500 yards over his four years as a player.
Adam Rittenberg of ESPN.com had high praise for Norvell: “He should continue what Justin Fuente started, and his background would be perfect if Memphis eventually moves into a Power 5 like the Big 12.”
The U of M will hold a press conference this afternoon (4:30) where the native of Irving, Texas, will be formally introduced. Highlights of the event will be posted at Tiger Blue.