Promising First-Time Power Conference Coaches in College Football
The 2025 college football coaching carousel brought significant changes, marking one of the most dynamic hiring cycles recently. Several high-profile positions at prestigious programs opened up, inviting seasoned coaches like Lane Kiffin and James Franklin. Alongside them, a number of emerging talents from coordinator roles or Group of Five schools were entrusted with leadership positions, valued more for their potential than past achievements.
Key First-Time Power Conference Coaches for 2026
For hardcore college football fans, the names of these coaches may ring a bell. For casual followers, these three could soon become widely recognized.
1. Will Stein – Kentucky Wildcats
A Kentucky Wildcats flag is waved after a touchdown during the college football game between Kentucky and Louisville at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium in Louisville, Ky., on Nov. 25, 2023. (Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Both offensive coordinator Will Stein and defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi from Oregon transitioned into head coaching roles this offseason. Stein’s appointment as Kentucky’s head coach aligns with the infrastructure and opportunity in the SEC. While Kentucky does not rival Georgia or Alabama, the program thrived under former coach Mark Stoops. Stoops elevated the team’s performance, leaving a strong foundation for Stein.
With an offensive background, Stein aims to revitalize a defense-centric program. His experience under Oregon’s Dan Lanning offers him insight into managing a major college program. As Kentucky embraces Stein, expect surprises during the 2026 season.
2. Bob Chesney – UCLA Bruins
The UCLA flag waves during the Cactus Bowl college football game between Kansas State and UCLA at Chase Field in Phoenix, Ariz., on Dec. 26, 2017. (Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire)
Bob Chesney, after successful stints in lower divisions, led James Madison to the College Football Playoff swiftly. His ability to maintain momentum post-successful predecessors makes him an ideal candidate for turning around UCLA’s struggling fortunes.
Despite UCLA’s recent mediocrity, Chesney’s fit suggests a revival is imminent. His recruiting prowess, indicated by UCLA’s top-15 class ranking, demonstrates his capacity to attract talent. Combined with strategic coaching, Chesney has the potential to elevate UCLA quickly.
3. Eric Morris – Oklahoma State
The Oklahoma State Cowboys logo is displayed on the field before the college football game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Ariz., on Sept. 9, 2023. (Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire)
Eric Morris represents a promising first-year head coach at Oklahoma State, following Mike Gundy’s long tenure. Morris, rooted in Big 12 traditions from his Texas Tech era, brings an Air Raid offense inspired by Mike Leach.
Morris orchestrated elite passing performances at North Texas, coaching Drew Mestemaker, a standout quarterback now at Oklahoma State. His expertise in crafting quarterbacks like Cam Ward and John Mateer enhances his reputation as a skilled mentor.
His strategic pairing with Mestemaker and offensive acumen promises immediate success in Stillwater. Morris’ ascent may incite interest from top-tier programs nationwide before long.