Sam Houston Announces Change in Football Leadership

Sam Houston Announces Change in Football Leadership

Sam Houston State University announced today that Phil Longo will no longer serve as head coach of Bearkat Football, effective immediately.

Longo was named Sam Houston’s head coach in December 2024. The Bearkats finished 2–10 in 2025 and are 1–7 in 2026, bringing the program’s record under Longo to 3–17 overall and 1–11 in Conference USA.

“Phil has contributed to Bearkat football as both an offensive coordinator and head coach, and we appreciate his work with our student-athletes,” said Bobby Williams, director of athletics. “Our responsibility is to evaluate the program’s performance and direction. After careful review, I believe a change in leadership is necessary to position Bearkat Football to compete consistently in Conference USA and meet the expectations of our student-athletes, university and supporters.”

Associate Head Coach Eric Raisbeck and Defensive Coordinator Freddie Aughtry-Lindsay will serve as interim co-head coaches.

Sam Houston will share additional information as plans for the football program are finalized.

Media Contact:
Jeff Harris
Chief Marketing Officer and Public Information Officer
936.294.1011
cmo@shsu.edu