Rick Thomas enters his third season as the assistant defensive backs coach.
In 2012, Thomas’ defensive backs unit played a vital role on a Cougar defense that ranked fourth in interceptions (23), 10th in turnover margin (+1.30), 25th in pass efficiency defense (108.87), 34th in scoring defense (20.80) and 35th in tackles for loss (7.50) in the NCAA DII. Individually, three of USF’s starting DBs were in the top-20 in the NSIC for tackles (DB only). Those starters also accounted for 14 of the Cougars’ 23 picks.
Thomas mentored safety Robert Virgil to Don Hansen All-American and All-Region selections, in addition to Daktronics Region 3 Second Team Defense, BSN All-America second team and first team All-NSIC recognition. Virgil led the nation in passes defended (23) and was tied for third in DII with seven interceptions.
USF’s defensive backs flourished during Thomas’ first season on staff. The Cougar defensive backfield accounted for 13 interceptions and 38 passes defended. In addition to their ball-hawk skills, the youthful group demonstrated exceptional playmaking ability after the catch. They averaged an impressive 17.2 yards per interception return and returned two for scores last season.
Consistent tackling and run support was also provided by the secondary. Each of the starting four defensive backs ranked top-10 in tackles last season.
Prior to joining USF, Thomas was the head coach of the Boulder Bears, a youth football team in Boulder, Colo. He also volunteered at the University of Colorado (CU), where he served as a recruiting and operations assistant. Thomas was involved in the Buffalo's top-15 rated recruiting class in 2008.
Thomas served as a camp counselor for CU’s summer football camps from 2009-2011. As counselor, he mentored fourth through eighth grade athletes, developing their basic skills and fundamentals.
A native of Hermosa Beach, Calif., Thomas prepped at Mira Costa High School (Manhattan Beach, Calif.) where he lettered in football.
Thomas received a bachelor’s of art in History from the University of Colorado in May of 2011.
