Houston Hires Helton as Coach

Kim Helton, describing himself as “dirt-road” smart, was hired Friday as football coach at the University of Houston and vowed to build the Cougar program into a national power.

“I have the knowledge to do it and the ‘want-to’ so bad that even if I’m dumb about it, it will still work out,” Helton said. “I’m dirt-road smart and abrasive at times, but my heart is genuine and my word is good and I love big, tough, ugly men.”

Helton was the last of five finalists in the running to replace John Jenkins, who resigned April 16 amid allegations of NCAA rules violations. Jenkins has denied all charges.

Helton resigned as offensive line coach with the Miami Dolphins to accept his first head-coaching job. He spent three seasons on Jerry Glanville’s staff with the Houston Oilers from 1987-89.