Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire admits that Texas coach Mack Brown considerably impacted his way of thinking about staff building.
On “What’s Next! with Joey McGuire,” the Red Raiders coach explained how Brown’s methodical networking style still influences his management style in Lubbock.
Joey McGuire Reveals Mack Brown’s Blueprint Behind Texas Tech’s Coaching Success
During the most recent episode of the renowned Texas Tech show, the audience received extraordinary insight into the head coach’s systematic approach to building his staff.
The conversation with the host displayed McGuire’s admiration for coach Mack Brown’s outstanding management skills.
“Learned that from Mack Brown, man. He’s got a spreadsheet,” McGuire revealed during the interview. “He would, like if you needed a coach right now, even though he’s out of it, you could probably call Mac and say, ‘Hey, who do you think would be a good defensive coordinator?’ He’s going to have five names really to go.”
The revelation came as McGuire discussed his strategic patience in assembling his Texas Tech staff. He noted how he had cultivated relationships with key coaches years before bringing them to Lubbock, including Associate Head Coach Kenny Perry and Director of Player Development Dave Martin.
“I remember in 2019, I interviewed for a job and I called Kenny,” he said. “I said, ‘Hey man, if I get the job, are you in?’ And he was like, ‘I’m in. I don’t… whatever university we’re going. Like, I’m in.'”
This method is similar to Brown’s well-known networking idea, prioritizing thorough preparation and relationships. One of Brown’s primary “spreadsheet” techniques signifies the managerial precision that distinguished top programs under his tenure at Texas from 1998 to 2013.
McGuire’s hands-on leadership style also reflects Brown’s emphasis on authentic relationships. “I’m probably the only head coach in the country that I check in the guys for breakfast in the morning,” McGuire explained. “I want to be the first person they see in the morning.”
The Texas Tech coach’s relationship-building philosophy extends beyond staff to players. “The more things that we can do together, football, but just anything that’s just life, the better and closer we’re going to become,” he noted. “The team that cares about each other more usually wins those games.”
McGuire’s professional approach also draws from Brown’s methods. “We talk all the time about you practicing like a pro. This is what it’s going to look like next year in the NFL,” he said, emphasizing preparation that goes beyond traditional college football.
As Texas Tech prepares for another season, McGuire’s systematic approach to staff building, learned from Brown’s legendary method, continues to pay dividends in Lubbock.
