The Aggies have inked their most valuable possession to a contract extension. Head football coach Matt Wells signed an extension that runs through the 2019 season.
Wells set a school record in his first two seasons as a head coach by compiling a record of 19-9, including two bowl game wins. It is the second time in as many years that Wells and his staff have received an extension. Interim AD Jana Doggett and Matt Wells spoke to the matter in a USU press release:
"It is extremely important to us that we keep Matt and his staff at Utah State long-term, and I know in my conversations with him this is exactly what he wants," said interim AD Jana Doggett. "We know what we have in Coach Wells and his commitment to our student-athletes continues to be tremendous. Matt has deep roots here as a former Aggie quarterback and he conveys his passion for our great university on a daily basis."
"I am very appreciative of the support shown by my University and President (Stan) Albrecht, and in our staff and myself," said Wells. "I am extremely honored to coach here at my alma mater and I'm as motivated as ever to reset the culture daily that has been established here at Utah State in our football program. We will continue to work hard toward our goals of graduating our student-athletes on time, and competing for and winning Mountain West championships."
The extension also includes increased salary for the assistant coaches. What is not known is the buyout amount (if any) for when larger schools come knocking. With continued success on the field despite an alarming amount of injuries, Wells was drawing interest after just his second season. Another successful season will all but guarantee bigger schools with deeper pockets come calling. Last year, Florida had to pay most of former Colorado State head coach Jim McElwain's $7.5 million buyout.
Utah State is Wells's alma mater -- he played quarterback from 1993-96 -- which might allow the Aggies to hang on to him longer than most. However, having great coaches back-to-back is a problem Utah State hasn't faced in decades, though it is a good problem to have. It will definitely be something to watch closely after the 2015 season.