The college football coaching carousel is in full swing, with major Power 4 programs making aggressive moves to secure their next head coach. From Texas A&M’s blockbuster buyout to surprise firings at Mississippi State and Syracuse, the landscape is shifting rapidly. Here’s the latest intel on the open jobs, top candidates, and what to expect next.
Current Power 4 Coaching Vacancies
Several high-profile programs are now searching for new leadership. Here’s a breakdown of each opening and the latest rumors:
1. Texas A&M Aggies
- Why It’s Open: Jimbo Fisher was fired with a record $76 million buyout.
- Top Candidates:
- Dan Lanning (Oregon) – Publicly denied interest, but A&M’s deep pockets could change things.
- Lane Kiffin (Ole Miss) – A top target, but would he leave a thriving Rebels program?
- Mike Elko (Duke) – Former A&M DC with strong defensive credentials.
2. Mississippi State Bulldogs
- Why It’s Open: Zach Arnett was let go after a disappointing season.
- Top Candidates:
- Willie Fritz (Tulane) – Turnaround specialist with Group of Five success.
- Jamey Chadwell (Liberty) – Offensive innovator with a strong Flames team.
- Jeff Lebby (Oklahoma OC) – Rising star with SEC ties.
3. Michigan State Spartans
- Why It’s Open: Mel Tucker’s scandal led to an abrupt dismissal.
- Top Candidates:
- Lance Leipold (Kansas) – Proven program builder with MAC and Big 12 success.
- Jonathan Smith (Oregon State) – West Coast recruiter with Beavers resurgence.
4. Indiana Hoosiers
- Why It’s Open: Tom Allen couldn’t sustain early success.
- Top Candidates:
- Curt Cignetti (James Madison) – Turned JMU into an instant FBS contender.
- Jason Candle (Toledo) – Strong MAC track record.
5. Syracuse Orange
- Why It’s Open: Dino Babers’ tenure ended after nearly a decade.
- Top Candidates:
- Barry Odom (UNLV) – Defensive-minded leader.
- Al Golden (Notre Dame DC) – Former Miami HC with Northeast ties.
Key Storylines to Watch
Will Lane Kiffin Leave Ole Miss for Texas A&M?
Kiffin is a top candidate for the Aggies, but his success at Ole Miss makes a move uncertain. If he stays, A&M may pivot to Dan Lanning or UCF’s Gus Malzahn.
Jedd Fisch: The Rising Hot Name
Arizona’s Fisch has elevated the Wildcats and could be in play for Michigan State or Indiana if their top choices fall through.
Deion Sanders: A Dark Horse Candidate?
Coach Prime’s future at Colorado is uncertain. If a program like A&M makes a massive NIL-backed offer, could he jump?
What’s Next in the Coaching Carousel?
- Timeline: Expect hires before Early Signing Day (Dec. 20) to secure recruiting classes.
- Domino Effect: Texas A&M’s decision will impact other searches.
- Sleepers: Watch for coordinator promotions (e.g., Alabama’s Tommy Rees, Washington’s Ryan Grubb).
One thing is clear—the next few weeks will reshape the future of these Power 4 programs.
