Gilbert played college football at Angelo State University, where was a two-time All-Lone Star Conference selection at quarterback.
In 2015, Gilbert was hired by Charlie Strong at the University of Texas at Austin as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach until the end of the 2016 season.
His overall offensive style received criticism, as he was over reliant on halfback dive plays and did not attempt to open up the field, causing breakdowns against better defenses.
On December 5, 2018, Sterlin Gilbert was named the head football coach at McNeese State University, consequently avoiding potential termination by USF.
[3] In December 2023, Gilbert joined the California Golden Bears as their passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach.