As Missouri prepares to face Virginia in their upcoming bowl game, a potential shake-up on the offensive side of the ball has emerged that could dramatically impact the Tigers’ preparations. Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Kirby Moore has reportedly arrived in Pullman, Washington, indicating that he may be in the running for the head coaching position at Washington State University.
According to Greg Woods of the Spokesman Review, Moore’s presence in Pullman is a clear signal that he is being seriously considered for the Cougars’ vacancy. WSU lost former head coach Jimmy Rogers to Iowa State, leaving the program in the midst of a thorough search for a new leader. While multiple names have surfaced in the hunt, Moore represents the first significant candidate with strong ties to the region, giving him an edge in the eyes of WSU administrators.
Moore’s connection to the Pacific Northwest runs deep. He attended high school in Prosser, Washington, only a few hours from Pullman, and previously spent a season as a graduate assistant at the University of Washington. These connections, combined with his experience coaching at Missouri, make him an appealing candidate for a program looking to strengthen recruiting pipelines in the state. His familiarity with local high school talent could give WSU a distinct advantage in attracting top players.
Since joining Missouri in 2023, Moore has been an influential figure in the Tigers’ offensive success. In addition to coordinating the offense, he has been pivotal in the development of current New York Jets quarterback Brady Cook, helping mold him into a professional-level prospect. Even during a challenging 2025 season marked by injuries to starting quarterback Beau Pribula, the Tigers managed to finish with the sixth-ranked offense in the SEC, highlighting Moore’s ability to adapt and produce results despite adversity.
The potential loss of Moore would be a major blow to Missouri’s offensive operations. He has been a steadying presence in the quarterback room, a strategic mind behind game planning, and a mentor to many of the team’s young skill-position players. Losing him could disrupt continuity, impact the development of emerging talent, and possibly trigger unexpected transfers if players seek stability elsewhere.
Moreover, Moore’s departure would leave a critical vacancy for the Tigers just as they prepare for a high-profile bowl matchup. Adjusting to a new offensive coordinator at this stage of the season could pose significant challenges, from play-calling adjustments to chemistry with the quarterbacks and skill players. Missouri’s staff will need to act quickly if Moore decides to accept the WSU job, whether by promoting from within or bringing in outside candidates.
While nothing is set in stone, the Tigers and their fans are bracing for the possibility of losing a key architect of their offense. Moore’s experience, recruiting connections, and offensive acumen make him an attractive option for WSU, but they also highlight just how vital he has been to Missouri’s recent success.
For now, Tigers fans will have to wait and watch as Moore navigates the interview process. Whether he remains in Columbia or moves west to Pullman, his future will have a lasting impact on Missouri’s football program.
