After leading the unsuspecting University of Houston Cougars to a 12-1 season, head football coach Kevin Sumlin is taking his talents to East Texas to become the new head coach of Texas A&M University.

Not only does this mark the first time Texas A&M has hired a black head coach, Sumlin also follows behind former Mississippi State University coach Sylvester Croom and current University of Kentucky coach Joker Phillips as just the third African American head football coach in the 79 year history of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

"I am very excited about the opportunity to serve as the head football coach at Texas A&M University," said Sumlin via statement. "Having coached there before, I understand the culture and embrace the commitment by the 12th Man” — the fans — “regarding Aggie football. Aggieland is a special place and I look forward to working with the young men in the football program and recruiting the type of players we need to be successful in the SEC."

Sumlin had long been rumored to take the job even though other schools including UCLA and Arizona State had expressed interest. 

"Hiring the first African-American head football coach at A&M is a momentous occasion," said former Texas A&M player Steve Solari.

Sumlin's contract is a reported 5-year, $10 million deal.