From high school standout to the architect of Missouri's football resurgence

History · Published 4 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Before leading the Missouri Tigers to historic victories, Eliah Drinkwitz climbed a rigorous coaching ladder. His journey through the ranks of college football reveals a pattern of strategic movement and a knack for turning programs around, culminating in one of the most significant contract extensions in recent memory.

Eliah Drinkwtiz’s coaching trajectory is defined by a series of high-profile associations and rapid promotions. After beginning his coaching career at Springdale High School in 2004 alongside Gus Malzahn, Drinkwitz moved into the collegiate sphere at Auburn in 2009. During his tenure there, he contributed to the staff that secured the 2010 National Championship under Gene Chizik. He later followed Malzahn to Arkansas State, serving as running backs coach and co-offensive coordinator between 2012 and 2013.

His ability to manage complex offensive roles was further refined at NC State, where he served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for three seasons. During this period, he secured 25 victories and two bowl wins, helping the Wolfpack achieve a #23 AP Poll ranking in 2017. After a highly successful single season at Appalachian State in 2019, where he led the team to a 12–1 record and a Sun Belt championship, he was tapped to lead the University of Missouri.

At Missouri, Drinkwitz has overseen a period of significant transformation. Following an initial 5–5 season, he led the Tigers to a breakout 10–2 campaign in 2023, highlighted by a 14–3 victory over Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. This success led to a contract extension through 2028, including a $9 million salary for 2024. Despite rumors linking him to major programs like LSU and Penn State, Drinkwitz solidified his commitment to Missouri with a massive six-year, $64.5 million extension signed in late 2025.

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