Missouri wisely extends Gary Pinkel plus gives $1M pay increase

The old saying of “sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good” is only a half truth when talking about Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel. Pinkel has been good and lucky especially over the last two seasons.

The Tigers head coach has been in Columbia since 2001 compiling a win-loss record of 113-66 split between Big 12 and Southeastern Conference play. In his first 11 seasons at Missouri Pinkel hit the double-digit win plateau just three times (2007, 2008, and 2010). His first season in the SEC was rough going 5-7 overall, 2-6 in-conference.

The fortunes have changed over the past two seasons winning two SEC East Division titles posting a record of 12-2 in 2013 and 11-3 in 2014. Adding to the shine of Missouri’s accomplishments are back-to-back bowl wins over Oklahoma State (41-31) and Minnesota (33-17).

For those efforts and attention turned to the program Pinkel received a contract extension through 2021 on Friday along with a pay increase. Pinkel’s salary was $3.2 million last season but he will earn $4.02 in 2015.

Pinkel released a statement on Friday writing, “I want to thank Chancellor Loftin and Mike Alden for their continuing commitment and belief in what we are doing at Mizzou. We’ve shared some pretty amazing success together over the years, and as competitors we all know there’s more to be done. I’ve never been more excited to be here and to pursue excellence with such a great leadership team, and such an amazing and dedicated coaching staff.”

Missouri has been able to take advantage of a down SEC East Division over the past two years but have not been able to bust past the tougher SEC West Division in the SEC Championship Game losing to Auburn 59-42 in 2013 and Alabama 42-13.

 

Written by Ryan Wright

Photo credit: si.com; Missouri head coach Gary Pinkel.