College Football's Next National Champion Coaches: Rising Stars and Underdogs
An in-depth look at college football's top coaches poised to win their first national championship, with insights on their strategies and team trajectories.
The Rising Stars of College Football Coaching
Steve Sarkisian, Texas
- Age: 50
- Record: 38-17 at Texas (four years); 84-52 overall (11 years)
- CFP Appearances: Two
Sarkisian has quickly turned Texas into a CFP contender, making back-to-back playoff appearances and leading the Longhorns to their first two CFP wins. His innovative play-calling and impressive recruiting, especially with Arch Manning, make Texas a strong future title contender.
Dan Lanning, Oregon
- Age: 38
- Record: 35-6 (three years)
- CFP Appearances: One
Lanning has successfully transitioned Oregon to the Big Ten, delivering an undefeated regular season and securing the No. 1 seed in the first 12-team CFP. His focus on recruiting and program stability sets Oregon up for continued playoff success.
Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame
- Age: 39
- Record: 33-10 (three years)
- CFP Appearances: One
Freeman's development of Notre Dame's program culminated in a thrilling journey to the 2024 national title game. His ability to modernize recruiting and lead the Irish to their first three CFP wins signals a bright future for Notre Dame.
James Franklin, Penn State
- Age: 53
- Record: 101-42 at Penn State (11 years); 125-57 overall (14 years)
- CFP Appearances: One
Franklin's consistent success at Penn State, including a 2024 CFP appearance, underscores his potential to lead the Nittany Lions to their first national title since 1986.
Kalen DeBoer, Alabama
- Age: 50
- Record: 9-4 at Alabama (one year); 46-13 overall (five years)
- CFP Appearances: One
DeBoer's innovative approach has quickly made an impact at Alabama. With a focus on recruiting and roster management, he is poised to elevate Alabama back to national prominence in the evolving SEC landscape.
Wildcards on the Path to Glory
Brian Kelly, LSU
Kelly's extensive experience and strategic recruiting keep LSU on the cusp of title contention, despite recent setbacks.
Josh Heupel, Tennessee
Heupel's dynamic offense and strong recruiting have Tennessee trending upward, with recent victories over Alabama signaling potential for future success.
Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss
Kiffin's innovative play-calling and recruiting prowess are transforming Ole Miss into a consistent SEC contender, with eyes on their first CFP appearance.
Sherrone Moore, Michigan
Moore's impressive start at Michigan highlights his potential to continue the Wolverines' tradition of success and soon compete for championships.
Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State
Dillingham's unexpected success in leading Arizona State to a Big 12 title and a strong CFP performance establishes him as a promising coaching talent.
Coaches Needing a Turnaround
Lincoln Riley, USC
Despite initial promise, Riley's struggles with roster management and program stability have left USC behind in the competitive Big Ten.
Mike Norvell, Florida State
Norvell's overreliance on the transfer portal and challenges in recruiting have hindered Florida State's progress following a disappointing 2024 season.
Luke Fickell, Wisconsin
Fickell's initial challenges at Wisconsin highlight the need for renewed program identity and stronger recruiting to return to Big Ten relevance.
These coaches represent the evolving landscape of college football, with each striving to leave their mark and join the elite club of national champion head coaches.
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