New College Coaches Aim for Success This Season

The coaching landscape in college football underwent a massive shift last year as 33 programs brought in new head coaches during the offseason. The influx of financial support through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals has led to a reduced tolerance for underperforming coaches. Following Curt Cignetti’s remarkable achievement in securing a national championship for Indiana in his second season, the pressure mounts on other coaches to achieve early success.

As these 33 programs look to the future, they hope that the fresh leadership will bring positive change. Below are three college football teams that could see significant improvements under their new head coaches.

1. Florida, Jon Sumrall

Jon Sumrall has generated considerable excitement among Florida fans, and the enthusiasm is evident in the recruitment arena. Sumrall’s previous tenure at Troy and Tulane was marked by early achievements, including leading Tulane to the College Football Playoff last season.

Florida parted ways with Billy Napier following a disappointing 3-4 start and ended the 2025 season with a 4-8 record. Sumrall aims to drastically improve this record, potentially doubling Florida’s wins this fall. Aiming for the College Football Playoff might take until 2027, when better recruitment and transfer portal resources become available.

2. LSU, Lane Kiffin

LSU turned to Lane Kiffin with hopes of steadying the ship after Brian Kelly’s tenure ended unfavorably. Kiffin had previously propelled Ole Miss to the College Football Playoff, but he jumped at the opportunity to lead the Tigers before coaching the Rebels in the postseason.

The LSU administration quickly equipped Kiffin with robust resources to strengthen the team’s roster for the upcoming season. While winning a national title might be ambitious for now, LSU is expected to contend for the SEC title and a spot in the College Football Playoff.

3. Oklahoma State, Eric Morris

Oklahoma State is quietly rebuilding under Eric Morris after enduring a challenging 1-11 season in 2025. Morris demonstrated his coaching prowess with an 11-2 record at North Texas last year. Although they lost to Tulane in the American Conference championship, North Texas nearly qualified for the College Football Playoff.

With the addition of Drew Mestemaker, an exciting transfer quarterback from North Texas who amassed 4,379 yards, 34 touchdowns, and nine interceptions last season, Oklahoma State is poised for a dramatic turnaround. They may not capture the Big 12 title just yet, but they are on the path to a solid recovery.

Honorable Mentions: UCLA (Bob Chesney), Virginia Tech, James Franklin