Last year, 33 college football programs hired new head coaches, creating a significant shift in leadership throughout the sport. With increased financial backing from Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, the tolerance for underperforming coaches has waned. The brief yet triumphant tenure of Curt Cignetti, who led Indiana to a national championship in his second season, exemplifies the mounting pressure on coaches to deliver swift victories.

Each of the 33 programs with fresh leadership hopes to see improved outcomes as the fall season approaches. Below, we explore three programs expected to make notable strides with their newly appointed head coaches.

Florida, Jon Sumrall

Jon Sumrall has ushered in renewed enthusiasm at Florida, accompanied by a surge in recruitment. Sumrall achieved quick success at both Troy and Tulane, even guiding Tulane to the College Football Playoff the previous season. Florida, having released Billy Napier following a disappointing 3-4 start that concluded with a 4-8 season record, anticipates doubling its win tally this fall under Sumrall’s guidance. However, a College Football Playoff (CFP) appearance may be more feasible in 2027 as the program enhances its recruiting and transfer portal resources.

LSU, Lane Kiffin

LSU appointed Lane Kiffin, expecting a reliable leader after Brian Kelly’s career took a downturn in Baton Rouge. Kiffin brought Ole Miss to the CFP last season but opted to join the Tigers before leading Ole Miss in the playoff. LSU promptly endowed Kiffin with extensive resources to construct a competitive roster for the upcoming season. While winning a national championship might be out of reach this season, LSU is in a strong position to contend for the SEC title and a CFP berth.

Oklahoma State, Eric Morris

Oklahoma State enters the offseason with modest expectations following a disheartening 1-11 record in 2025. Yet, Eric Morris brings optimism, having achieved an impressive 11-2 record with North Texas last year. North Texas contended for a CFP spot against Tulane in the American Conference championship but lost 34-21. Notably, Oklahoma State now has one of the most promising quarterbacks, Drew Mestemaker, who transferred from North Texas. Mestemaker boasts impressive stats from last season, with 4,379 passing yards, 34 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. The Cowboys might not clinch the Big 12 title yet, but they are positioned for a substantial turnaround.

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