Fighting Ever Fighting with Joe Bob Clements

Joe Bob Clements, a longtime defensive coach and former player for Kansas State and Oklahoma State, returns to Manhattan after a year-long sabbatical during which he was paid to do nothing. Now serving as assistant head coach and offensive forward scout, Clements brings a unique defensive perspective to the offensive side of the ball, analyzing offensive drills to anticipate opposing defenses' strategies. The conversation reflects on his storied career under Bill Snyder and Mike Gundy, the emotional toll of the 2003 Big 12 Championship loss, and the evolving challenges of college football—especially the impact of the transfer portal, NIL, and lack of regulation. Clements shares personal insights on family, hunting, and the changing landscape of coaching, including AI's growing role in player recovery and film analysis. Despite being one of the 'old guys' on staff, he embraces the new role with enthusiasm, citing the people and community as his main reasons for returning to K-State.