SJSU’s Brennan nabs contract extension

After what many in the Mountain West and Spartan community considered a breakthrough 2019 season for San Jose State football, the administration acted relatively quickly with the announced extension Thursday afternoon.

It’s a clear, positive sign in the trajectory and belief in the program under Brennan and the continued buildup and donations around the athletic programs as a whole.

Brennan’s first two years proved difficult with a 3-22 record, but clear signs-of-life were already evident in 2018.

Despite 2018’s 1-11 season, the Spartans were highly competitive against stalwarts like the Oregon Ducks, San Diego State and Hawaii. In some cases, the Spartans were within a possession or two from notching three to four wins that season.

2019’s finish had a very similar ring. With the 5-7 record, the Spartans were easily within four more wins that each fell short by one possession. Away wins over the Arkansas Razorbacks and Army and a key rivalry win over Fresno State punctuated a season that saw bowl eligibility within reach (2015 had been the last bowl appearance that resulted in a 27-16 win over Georgia State).

The university will hold a news conference to officially announce Brennan’s contract extension today, along with SJSU’s president Mary Papazian and athletic director Mary Tuite.

Brennan’s current five-year deal averaged $575,000 annually, which ranks among the bottom third of the 12 Mountain West head coaches.