The Ascendancy of College Football Coaches: A Year of Surprises and Shifts
In the dynamic world of college football, coaching prowess often dictates the trajectory of programs. This year saw significant movements in the rankings, highlighting new faces and shifts in fortunes among long-established coaching stalwarts.
A New Era of Rankings
It took Kirby Smart eight years to reach the pinnacle of my annual coach rankings, with Ryan Day following closely at six years for his ascent to the second position. However, both were recently ousted by Curt Cignetti, who remarkably didn’t appear in my top 25 until 2025. This shift speaks volumes about the current landscape of college football coaching, where unexpected developments often reshape our expectations.
A Slimming Top Tier
The current crop of top-tier coaches feels notably thin. While I grappled to fill the final slots in the top 10, I realized there were over 25 worthy candidates clamoring for attention. This suggests a period of transition in the coaching landscape, where a few standout figures dominate, while others strive to prove their mettle.
Method Behind the Rankings
It’s essential to clarify the criteria for these rankings. They are not mere reflections of career achievements but snapshots of current realities. The rankings gauge coaches based on their trajectory over the past three to five seasons, considering recent performances and their potential for future success.
Top Coaches: A Closer Look
1. Curt Cignetti, Indiana (2025 Ranking: No. 11)
Cignetti’s transformation of Indiana is nothing short of monumental. Turning a dismal 9-27 record from 2021-23 into a 16-0 national championship in just two seasons highlights his innovative approach. He adeptly utilized name, image, and likeness opportunities alongside the transfer portal, amassing a stellar 46-6 record over four seasons.
2. Kirby Smart, Georgia (2025: No. 1)
Smart continues to redefine excellence at Georgia. Despite winning back-to-back SEC championships and a 23-5 record, his last two seasons felt like mild disappointments in the wake of his remarkable 42-2 record and two national titles. Georgia remains an indomitable force in the SEC.
3. Ryan Day, Ohio State (2025: No. 2)
After leading Ohio State to a national title in 2024, Day’s recent season still fell short of expectations, particularly with an early exit from the College Football Playoff. However, his innovative hire of Matt Patricia as defensive coordinator paid dividends, resulting in Ohio State’s most imposing defense during his tenure.
4. Dan Lanning, Oregon (2025: No. 5)
Lanning’s ability to navigate the Big Ten since Oregon’s entrance is commendable, boasting an impressive 17-1 record. Despite facing setbacks in the College Football Playoff, his strategic recruitment and transfer strategies have fostered a solid foundation for future success.
5. Kalen DeBoer, Alabama (2025: No. 4)
DeBoer’s performance has elicited mixed reactions from Alabama fans, yet his consistent success—11 wins in three of the last four seasons—is noteworthy. He successfully led the Tide to an SEC title game and a first-round CFP victory, cementing his position among top coaches.
6. Steve Sarkisian, Texas (2025: No. 3)
After back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances, Sarkisian’s Texas team slipped to a 10-3 record in 2025. Nevertheless, he transformed a program long plagued by mediocrity into a consistent contender, making his current ranking justifiable.
7. Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame (2025: No. 10)
Freeman’s tenure has been marked by notable achievements, including a national championship appearance and a 24-4 record. His capacity to elevate Notre Dame’s offense—even as a defensive-minded coach—speaks to his multifaceted capabilities.
8. Lane Kiffin, LSU (2025: No. 13)
While his lack of CFP appearances raises eyebrows, Kiffin’s Ole Miss team achieved an impressive 11-1 regular season last year. His reputation as an offensive strategist continues to grow, despite some past controversies.
9. Kyle Whittingham, Michigan (2025: No. 14)
Whittingham’s pivot to a revitalized offense bore fruit after a slump. Departing Utah after 21 fruitful seasons, he leaves behind a legacy characterized by consistent success and bowl game appearances.
10. Mario Cristobal, Miami (2025: NR)
After being overlooked last year, Cristobal’s resurgence with Miami has been impressive. His lead propelled the Hurricanes to a 10-win season and a surprise national title run, bringing new hope to a historically rich program.
Notable Mentions and Changes
11. Matt Campbell, Penn State (2025: No. 9)
Campbell’s historical achievements at Iowa State may not shield him from scrutiny, especially after a disappointing final season. Yet, he remains one of the most respected figures in the game.
12. James Franklin, Virginia Tech (2025: No. 8)
Franklin’s tumultuous time at Penn State reflects the challenges in maintaining consistent success at major programs. Despite being dismissed midway through the season, his previous record earns him a spot in the rankings.
13. Kalani Sitake, BYU (2025: No. 21)
Sitake’s rapid ascension in the Big 12 has been backed by a strong performance, including a significant number of double-digit win seasons. His success has not gone unnoticed, prompting interest from larger programs.
14. Kirk Ferentz, Iowa (2025: No. 16)
Ferentz continues to build on decades of success, with Iowa maintaining competitiveness within the conference. His strategies have resulted in solid performances, showcasing his longevity in the sport.
15. Clark Lea, Vanderbilt (2025: NR)
Lea’s turnaround at Vanderbilt culminated in historic success last season. His ability to lead the Commodores to their first 10-win season is a remarkable achievement for the program.
16. Willie Fritz, Houston (2025: No. 23)
Fritz has a knack for elevating programs, evidenced by Houston’s turnaround from a subpar season to a ten-win record. His reputation as a transformative coach remains intact.
17. Josh Heupel, Tennessee (2025: No. 15)
Heupel’s previous successes tempered a slip in rankings due to recent performances. His short-term achievements have marked positive change for Tennessee.
18. Mike Elko, Texas A&M (2025: NR)
Elko’s impact at Texas A&M was felt quickly, leading the Aggies to their first playoff appearance in years. His defensive expertise has been crucial to the team’s resurgence.
19. Dabo Swinney, Clemson (2025: No. 6)
Swinney’s program faced challenges last season, leading to a drop in rankings. However, his past successes can’t be overlooked as the program navigates through a rebuilding phase.
20. Lance Leipold, Kansas (2025: No. 7)
Leipold’s promising start has seen some decline, but the historical context of Kansas’s performance continues to weigh positively on his ranking.
21. Jon Sumrall, Florida (2025: No. 25)
Sumrall’s impressive record in previous coaching stops earned him a coveted SEC position, poised for potential greatness with a robust foundation.
22. Jeff Brohm, Louisville (2025: No. 19)
Though the latest seasons saw a decline, Brohm’s return to Louisville showcases a familiar pattern of ups and downs historically present within the program.
23. Jeff Monken, Army (2025: No. 20)
Monken’s commitment and past successes provide a solid foundation for Army’s program, even as they navigate recent losses to Navy.
24. Rhett Lashlee, SMU (2025: No. 22)
Lashlee’s transition from the American to the ACC has seen commendable success. His leadership strategies have proven effective, leading to a strong performance.
25. Bret Bielema, Illinois (2025: NR)
Taking over a struggling program, Bielema’s ability to secure victories marks a significant turnaround, making him a noteworthy mention as the landscape of college football coaching continues to evolve.
Dropped Out and Just Missed
Notably absent from this year’s rankings are Brian Kelly, Jamey Chadwell, Chris Klieman, and Jonathan Smith, reflecting the unpredictable nature of coaching tenures in college football. Others like Bob Chesney, Kenny Dillingham, Brian Newberry, Eli Drinkwitz, and Sonny Dykes are on the fringes, highlighting the constant flux within the coaching ranks.
As the college football season unfolds, these rankings will continue to evolve, reflecting each coach’s ability to adapt and lead in an ever-changing landscape.