Midseason Coaching Carousel: A Look at the FBS Landscape
As we reach the midpoint of the college football season, the coaching carousel typically spins with fervor, but this year, it’s moving at a slower pace. Several factors contribute to this unusual calm. The last two seasons saw an unexpected surge in coaching changes, leading to a more stable environment this year. Additionally, the introduction of the 12-team College Football Playoff has extended the timeline for potential coaching searches, as programs may be hesitant to make changes while still in contention for postseason play.
However, as the season progresses, we may see activity at the Group of 5 level. Here’s a midseason assessment of the coaching landscape across various conferences, based on insights from industry sources.
American Athletic Conference (AAC)
Mike Houston, East Carolina (3-3)
Mike Houston’s tenure at East Carolina has been a roller coaster. After a successful stint at James Madison, where he won an FCS national title, he led the Pirates to two bowl games in his first four seasons. However, last year’s 2-10 record raised concerns, and a recent 31-point loss to rival Charlotte has intensified scrutiny. The loss of standout cornerback Shavon Revel to a season-ending injury adds to the challenges. With tough games against Army and Navy looming, Houston needs to secure a few wins to stabilize his position. Temperature check: Warm.
Mike Bloomgren, Rice (2-4)
Mike Bloomgren faces an uphill battle at Rice. Despite leading the Owls to a bowl game last season, the team has struggled this year, starting 1-4. A recent victory against UTSA provided a glimmer of hope, but bowl eligibility seems unlikely. With only UAB appearing to be a likely win, Bloomgren’s future may hinge on the remainder of the season. Temperature check: A little warm.
Stan Drayton, Temple (1-5)
Stan Drayton has had a tough time establishing momentum at Temple, with a dismal 2-16 record in AAC play. The Owls desperately need a win against Tulsa to regain some confidence. Temperature check: Getting warmer.
Trent Dilfer, UAB (1-5)
Trent Dilfer’s transition from a successful high school coach to the college ranks has been rocky. After a 4-8 season last year, the Blazers have struggled, with only a win over FCS Alcorn to show for their efforts. With critical home games against Tulsa and UConn approaching, Dilfer needs to demonstrate progress to quell growing criticism. Temperature check: Getting hot.
Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC)
Mack Brown, North Carolina (3-4)
Mack Brown’s second stint at North Carolina has been marked by success, but this season has seen a downturn. After a promising couple of years, the Tar Heels have lost four straight, including a staggering 70-point game against JMU. With three of their remaining opponents holding losing records, there’s still a chance for bowl eligibility, but whispers of a coaching change are growing louder. Temperature check: Getting a lot warmer.
Big 12 Conference
Dave Aranda, Baylor (2-4)
Dave Aranda’s tenure at Baylor has been a roller coaster, with a peak of a 12-2 season followed by a disappointing 11-20 record since. After almost making a coaching change last winter, patience is wearing thin as the Bears struggle again this season. With a favorable schedule ahead, Aranda must capitalize on these opportunities to secure his job. Temperature check: Hot.
Big Ten Conference
Mike Locksley, Maryland (3-3)
Mike Locksley’s Maryland team started strong but has since faltered, suffering two double-digit losses. Despite the struggles, Locksley’s previous successes have earned him goodwill, and he may be afforded a mulligan this season. Temperature check: Lukewarm.
Ryan Walters, Purdue (1-5)
Ryan Walters has faced challenges in his first season at Purdue, with the offense sputtering. Despite a close loss to Illinois, the Boilermakers need to show progress against a tough schedule. Temperature check: Getting a little warm.
Conference USA
Sonny Cumbie, Louisiana Tech (2-4)
Sonny Cumbie’s tenure has been rocky, with a 6-18 record in his first two years. After a promising win against MTSU, the Bulldogs fell short against New Mexico State. With a struggling UTEP team next, Cumbie needs to capitalize on this opportunity to secure his future. Temperature check: Pretty warm.
Mid-American Conference (MAC)
Mike Neu, Ball State (2-4)
Mike Neu’s Ball State team has struggled after a Top 25 finish in 2020. With a shaky start this season, Neu’s long tenure may be in jeopardy if the team cannot find a way to win more games. Temperature check: Warm.
Joe Moorhead, Akron (1-6)
Joe Moorhead has not found success at Akron, with back-to-back 2-10 seasons. The Zips are struggling again this year, and without significant improvement, Moorhead may be on the hot seat. Temperature check: Pretty warm.
Mountain West Conference
Tim Skipper, Fresno State (3-3)
Tim Skipper has a chance to solidify his position after stepping in for Jeff Tedford. With a decent shot at bowl eligibility, a strong finish could secure his role as head coach. Temperature check: Warm.
Southeastern Conference (SEC)
Sam Pittman, Arkansas (4-2)
After a disappointing season last year, Sam Pittman has the Razorbacks on the right track. With key wins under his belt, he appears to be coaching his way to job security. Temperature check: Hot but cooling off a bit.
Billy Napier, Florida (3-3)
Billy Napier faces scrutiny at Florida, where expectations are high. Despite a mixed bag of results, the Gators are still battling for bowl eligibility. With a challenging schedule ahead, Napier’s future hangs in the balance. Temperature check: Toasty.
Sun Belt Conference
Shawn Clark, Appalachian State (2-4)
Shawn Clark has had a successful run at Appalachian State, but this season has been challenging. With a tough schedule ahead, he needs to rally the team to avoid a disappointing season. Temperature check: Getting warm.
Butch Jones, Arkansas State (3-3)
Butch Jones has shown improvement at Arkansas State, and with a favorable schedule, bowl eligibility seems within reach. Temperature check: A little warm.
Will Hall, Southern Miss (1-5)
Will Hall’s tenure has been rocky, with the Golden Eagles struggling significantly this season. With tough games ahead, Hall’s job security is in jeopardy. Temperature check: Very hot.
As the season progresses, the coaching landscape will continue to evolve, and the pressure will mount for those on the hot seat. The next few weeks will be crucial for many programs as they strive for success and stability.