Coaches on the Hot Seat for 2026

The coaching turnover in collegiate football began early in 2025, with UCLA dismissing DeShaun Foster and Virginia Tech parting ways with Brent Pry following a 0-3 start on September 14. In total, 32 FBS teams had coaching vacancies in the latest hiring cycle. This figure aligns with recent trends, as 93 head coaching changes have occurred over the past three years.

The rise in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) funding for team rosters exerts additional pressure on coaches to deliver swift results. It is possible the coaching turnover may begin again before the first month of the football season concludes.

Coaches Under the Spotlight for 2026

1. Lincoln Riley, USC

USC Athletic Director Jennifer Cohen expressed expectations for the Trojans to reach the College Football Playoff this season. Lincoln Riley, who signed a 10-year, $110 million contract before the 2022 season, has drawn attention. He achieved three College Football Playoff appearances in five years with Oklahoma and was expected to propel USC into the national championship discussions.

Riley has recorded a 35-18 record during his four years at USC. His best season was in 2022 when USC finished 11-3, and quarterback Caleb Williams won the Heisman Trophy. However, USC has not secured a 10-win season since then.

2. Mike Norvell, Florida State

Florida State showed promise last season, defeating Alabama 31-17 in the opening week. Despite starting 3-0, the team lost four consecutive games, ending with a 5-7 record, a slight improvement over their 2-10 record in 2024. Norvell faced speculation about job security during the season, but a contract buyout reportedly contributed to his return for 2026.

Expectations for this season remain low. Norvell has a 38-34 record at Florida State. The team had a notable season in 2023, finishing 13-1, although they missed the College Football Playoff due to an injury to quarterback Jordan Travis.

3. Luke Fickell, Wisconsin

Wisconsin fans have expressed disappointment with Luke Fickell’s performance after he assumed the role before the 2022 bowl game. Fickell looked promising when he led Cincinnati to a College Football Playoff appearance in 2021.

Leading into 2026, Fickell holds a 17-21 record at Wisconsin, with only one winning season. Despite a challenging 4-8 season in 2025, Wisconsin Athletic Director Chris McIntosh announced plans to retain Fickell for 2026, focusing on enhancing recruiting and retention efforts.

4. Shane Beamer, South Carolina

South Carolina’s position in the SEC presents challenges. A 9-4 season in 2024 was commendable, yet it was flanked by a 5-7 season in 2023 and a 4-8 showing in 2025, with a 1-7 SEC record. Beamer has a 33-30 record in his first five years at South Carolina.

The team possesses talent to achieve a winning season with quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Failing to deliver a winning season could prompt the search for a new head coach.

5. Dave Aranda, Baylor

Dave Aranda led Baylor to a memorable 2021 season, winning the Big 12 title and the Sugar Bowl. Since then, he has managed only one winning season and holds a 36-37 record over six seasons.

Following a 5-7 performance in 2025, Baylor needs strong competition in a Big 12 absent of Texas and Oklahoma. Aranda enlisted former Florida quarterback DJ Lagway to improve the offense. Baylor’s performance this fall could decide Aranda’s future with the program.

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