JaMarcus Shephard Honored Mike Leach With Game Day Outfit
The Oregon State coach donned attire inspired by the late head coach during the team's victory over Montana.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Football
Oregon State coach JaMarcus Shephard paid tribute to the late Mike Leach by wearing a hat and sweatshirt reminiscent of the former head coach during a recent game. The gesture occurred as Oregon State secured a 52-17 win against Montana.
Why it matters
Shephard utilizes his game-day attire to express deep respect and admiration for the mentors who shaped his coaching career. This tribute follows his previous outfits honoring other head coaches like Kalen DeBoer and Jeff Brohm.
Oregon State defeated Montana with a final score of 52-17. This performance highlights the team's current momentum following the game-day tribute.
The players
JaMarcus Shephard
He is an Oregon State coach known for wearing attire that honors former head coaches he has worked for.
Mike Leach
He was a prominent college football head coach who died in December 2022.
The details
Shephard, who served as a wide receivers coach under Mike Leach in 2016, selected the specific attire to honor the late coach who died on Dec. 12, 2022. The outfit selection is part of a broader practice for the coach to highlight the figures who influenced his professional path.
Timeline
Shephard worked under Mike Leach in 2016.
Mike Leach died on Dec. 12, 2022.
Shephard wore the tribute outfit on Sept. 19-20, 2026.
Oregon State plays UTEP on Sept. 26, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This tribute reflects the ongoing emotional influence of former coaches on the current staff and their professional identity. Such displays underscore the tight-knit nature of the coaching community as teams navigate the competitive demands of the current season.
The 52-17 victory provides the team with a strong win for their seasonal record. This result positions Oregon State for their upcoming matchup against UTEP.
The takeaway
Shephard's tribute highlights how individual coaches maintain the legacy of their mentors through public displays of respect. These personalized traditions serve as a unique human element within the high-stakes environment of college athletics.
What happens next
Oregon State is scheduled to compete against UTEP on Sept. 26, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit Football.
