Tim Harris Jr. joins UCF as Co-Offensive Coordinator

Longtime FIU running backs coach and current offensive coordinator Tim Harris Jr. was named Co-Offensive Coordinator at UCF as announced by the program late Sunday evening. The move gives the Knights one of the top recruiters in Florida but leaves the Panthers searching for a new offensive coordinator after Harris was chosen to replace Rich Skrosky, who wasn’t retained following the 2020 season.

The 35-year-old Harris spent six seasons as FIU’s running backs coach, with his units being highly-regarded by Panthers’ head coach Butch Davis during his tenure.

“With Tim, watching him grow the past four years, he’s one of the best coaches and teachers I’ve been around my entire career,” said Davis to UDD last week. “His players rarely make mistakes. He’s disciplined with them but his players know that he loves them and wants them to do well. Tim’s earned the opportunity to the (offensive) coordinator because of how good of a man and teacher he is.”

According to 247 Sports, Harris was ranked as the top recruiter in Conference USA for the 2021 recruiting cycle. Per Jason Beede of 247 Sports, Harris is slated to earn 325k per season on a two-year contract.

FIU’s backs have ranked among the top-four teams in Conference USA in rushing over the past three seasons. When Harris was announced as offensive coordinator in early January, he spoke about wanting to use his track background to utilize the Panthers’ athletic players.

“Here’s what I’ll tell you, we’re going to be fast and aggressive,” said Harris through a chuckle when asked whether his offense will be pro-style or spread. “We’re going to be physical and we’re going to be fun — and I’ll leave it at that.”

Harris spoke about his desire to be an offensive coordinator to UDD last week.

“Being in the position that I’m in, it’s helping a lot of young (coaches) who look at me as a 35-year-old guy who was coaching high school six ago, and now I’m in a leadership role at the FBS level and I’m looking to make the most of my opportunity as an offensive coordinator.”

Prior to his tenure at FIU, Harris served as head coach at Miami-area powerhouse Booker T. Washington High School for one season and was their offensive coordinator for five seasons prior to that under his father, Tim “Ice” Harris.