College Football Coaches Face Tempting Job Offers Amid Coaching Changes

OXFORD, Miss. — College football is experiencing significant coaching changes as programs like Penn State, LSU, and Florida seek new head coaches. With Florida State likely to join the search in December, the coaching carousel is gaining speed.

Lane Kiffin of the Ole Miss Rebels and Eli Drinkwitz of the Missouri Tigers are being discussed as top candidates for these positions. However, both coaches would be wise to remain at their current schools.

Kiffin has turned Ole Miss into a national power, with a record of 7-1 and 4-1 in the SEC this season. His charismatic personality and social media prowess have made him a fan favorite in Oxford. “He can do no wrong in the eyes of fans and donors,” one local analyst noted.

Meanwhile, Drinkwitz has revived a struggling Missouri program, leading the Tigers to an 11-2 record in 2023, including a victory over Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. His unique personality has resonated with fans in Columbia, though it may not sit as well with the expectations of fans at larger programs.

Despite their success, both coaches should be cautious. College football’s landscape has changed dramatically, with many programs facing demanding expectations and pressure for immediate results. Kiffin and Drinkwitz benefit from supportive administrations and investments in their programs.

Heath Cline, a sports commentator, said, “They both have great situations where they are. Leaving could lead to more stress and unrealistic expectations.”

Penn State, while historic, has not won a national title since 1986 and struggles to attract top recruits due to its remote location. Likewise, the Florida Gators have a reputation for a demanding fan base that has led to the early departures of successful coaches.

LSU and Florida State are similarly volatile, with fan bases that shift quickly to disappointment should success fade. Florida State’s recent struggles could dissuade potential candidates from pursuing opportunities there. In contrast, both Kiffin and Drinkwitz are in nurturing environments.

Ultimately, they have to weigh their options wisely. “Staying put may be the smarter choice,” said sports analyst Tom Virgil. “The grass isn’t always greener on the other side.”