5 things to know about new Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury

Arizona signed one of the most interesting characters in the coaching profession 👉

Alex Chippin / Jan 8, 2019

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Quarterback guru

A former QB himself, Kingsbury helped develop Case Keenum, Johnny Manziel, Baker Mayfield, Davis Webb, and Patrick Mahomes during his NCAA career.

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Odd path to Arizona

Kingsbury was fired as Texas Tech head coach, hired as USC offensive coordinator, and then hired by the Cardinals in a six-week span. USC initially blocked him from interviewing with NFL teams.

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Famous doppelganger

Kingsbury was hailed for years as the most handsome coach in college football and frequently drew lookalike comparisons to actor Ryan Gosling.

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Tom Brady's backup

Kingsbury had a brief stint in the NFL, spending time with the Patriots, Saints, and Jets. He won Super Bowl XXXVIII with New England as Brady's backup.

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Baker Mayfield beef

The Browns QB claimed Kingsbury didn't offer him a scholarship at Texas Tech after going 5-0 as a walk-on freshman starter in 2013. Mayfield subsequently transferred to Oklahoma.

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