TCU Fires Offensive Line Coach A.J. Ricker
The Horned Frogs move to reorganize their coaching staff following a recent loss and struggles in the run game.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Football
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TCU has fired co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach A.J. Ricker after the team fell to a 3-4 overall record. Offensive coordinator Gordon Sammis will now oversee the offensive line position group.
Why it matters
The decision follows a 24-20 loss to West Virginia and reflects ongoing frustration with the offensive line, which currently ranks last in the Big 12 in both sacks allowed and rushing yards.
In the loss to West Virginia, TCU allowed three sacks and averaged just 3.2 yards per carry while totaling 112 rushing yards. The program has struggled to maintain production, ranking 13th and 14th in conference rushing over the past two seasons.
The players
A.J. Ricker
He served as the co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach for the TCU football program.
Gordon Sammis
He is the offensive coordinator for TCU and will now oversee the offensive line position group.
Sonny Dykes
He is the head coach of the TCU football program who originally recruited Ricker to the team in 2021.
The details
The coaching change comes after the Horned Frogs offense regressed significantly over the last three seasons. Gordon Sammis is tasked with stabilizing the unit as the team attempts to improve its conference standing.
Timeline
A.J. Ricker was originally recruited to the program by Sonny Dykes in December 2021.
TCU played in the national championship game in 2022.
Steve Avila was selected in the NFL draft in 2023.
Brandon Coleman was selected in the NFL draft in 2024.
TCU lost 24-20 to West Virginia on October 24, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This staff change marks a shift from the success experienced during the 2022 national championship game run. The move underscores the urgency of current leadership to reverse a downward trend and improve the program's standing in the Big 12.
Fans should monitor the team's ability to reduce sacks and increase rushing efficiency under new oversight to determine if the offense can regain bowl eligibility. With a 1-3 conference record, the immediate performance of the offensive line in upcoming games is critical for the remainder of the season.
The takeaway
The move signals a major pivot for TCU as they attempt to reconcile current on-field performance with recent program history. Adapting to the new offensive line leadership will be the primary factor in determining if the team can salvage its conference record.
Further reading
For more on local sports developments, visit the Football section.
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