Early Coaching Landscape: Who's Feeling the Heat?

The 2025 NCAAF season has already brought its share of drama, with several coaches finding themselves on the hot seat just two weeks into the season. After a relatively quiet 2024, the coaching carousel is expected to be much more active this year. Let's dive into the key figures and situations shaping the current coaching landscape.

Coaches Under Pressure

Billy Napier (Florida): Despite a strong finish to the 2024 season, Napier is back on the hot seat after a disappointing loss to South Florida. With a brutal schedule ahead, including games against LSU, Miami, Texas, and Georgia, Napier will need to pull off some significant upsets to stabilize his position.

Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State): Gundy barely escaped 2024 with his job intact but suffered a crushing 69-3 loss to Oregon. The lack of competitiveness in that game has raised serious concerns, and Gundy's future could hinge on how the team performs in upcoming games.

Brent Pry (Virginia Tech): Pry entered the 2025 season with high expectations but has started 0-2. After a disappointing 2024 season, Pry made several staff changes, but the Hokies have yet to show significant improvement.

Rising Stars and Cooled Seats

Hugh Freeze (Auburn): Freeze has Auburn on the right track with impressive wins over Baylor and Ball State. The Tigers' upcoming schedule will be a true test, but Freeze seems to have the program headed in the right direction.

Sam Pittman (Arkansas): Quarterback Taylen Green has been spectacular in the Razorbacks' first two games, and Pittman's team looks poised for a strong season. However, a challenging schedule lies ahead, with eight of their final 10 games against ranked opponents.

Coaching Candidates to Watch

Lane Kiffin (Ole Miss): Kiffin has built a solid program at Ole Miss and could be a top candidate for any major openings. His success with quarterbacks and offenses makes him an attractive option for programs looking for a proven winner.

Eli Drinkwitz (Missouri): Drinkwitz has guided Missouri to back-to-back 10-win seasons and was named SEC Coach of the Year in 2023. His offensive approach and success in the SEC make him a strong candidate for any major openings.

James Franklin (Penn State): Franklin's future at Penn State could depend on how the 2025 season plays out. With a home in Florida and extensive experience in the state, Franklin could be a prime candidate for any major openings.

Conclusion

The 2025 NCAAF coaching landscape is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic in recent years. With several coaches on the hot seat and a number of rising stars and potential candidates, the upcoming coaching carousel promises to be full of surprises. Stay tuned as the season unfolds and the coaching drama continues to develop.