Texas Tech staff changes
Texas Tech announced changes to its defensive staff this week. (USATSI)

David Gibbs turned down an offer from Tom Herman to stay at Houston in his current role as defensive coordinator in order to take the same job at Texas Tech with Kliff Kingsbury. 

Gibbs coached Houston's defense for two seasons, including a brief gig as the Cougars' interim head coach following the dismissal of Tony Levine. With Gibbs on the sideline, the Cougars put together a remarkable 29-point fourth quarter in a comeback victory against Pittsburgh in the Armed Forces Bowl.  

New Houston coach Tom Herman reportedly offered Gibbs a new two-year deal that included a pay increase, but it was apparently not enough to keep him with Texas Tech also interested.

"I couldn't be more excited about joining Coach Kingsbury and the rest of our coaching staff," Gibbs said Monday. "I have followed Kliff's career and believe special things are happening in Lubbock. There are several talented, young defensive players that will contribute for years to come. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to getting started soon."

Kingsbury also announced the addition of Zac Spavital as defensive backs coach and recruiting coordinator. Mike Smith, the interim defensive coordinator for TTU after Matt Wallerstadt was fired, will remain on staff as the linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator. 

“I am extremely excited to have Coach Gibbs and Coach Spavital join our staff,” Kliff Kingsbury said in a statement.  “What they were able to accomplish in their short time at the University of Houston is incredible.  Coach Gibbs developed UH into a Top-20 defense that lead the country in turnovers over a two-year span.  With stops in both College Football and the NFL, Coach Gibbs will bring experience and ingenuity to our defensive unit.”

Houston has already replaced Gibbs with the hire of Utah State defensive coordinator Todd Orlando.