College football history is filled with brilliant coaches who built dynasties, won championships, and led dominant programs. But sometimes, the same coaches who thrived on Saturdays couldn’t stop stepping in it the rest of the week.
From media blowups and recruiting scandals to off-field drama and personal chaos, these coaches proved that success on the field doesn’t always mean peace off it. They may have known how to win, but they sure knew how to stir the pot when the game clock hit zero.
13. Lane Kiffin
On the field, Lane Kiffin has always found a way to keep things electric. Off the field, he’s been just as exciting, for all the wrong reasons.
12. Bobby Petrino
Petrino could draw up an offense with the best of them. Unfortunately, he could also draw up scandal just as easily.
11. Urban Meyer
Meyer brought trophies to multiple programs and created juggernauts. But his off-field controversies kept following him like a shadow.
10. Jim Tressel
Tressel led Ohio State to a national title and consistent success. But one memorabilia scandal torched his pristine reputation.
9. Mike Leach
Leach was a genius with a playbook and a quote machine in press conferences. But his eccentric off-field behavior often raised eyebrows.
8. Steve Sarkisian
Sarkisian has a sharp offensive mind and an impressive coaching résumé. But his personal struggles nearly derailed his career more than once.
7. Hugh Freeze
Freeze turned Ole Miss into a powerhouse for a minute. Then the NCAA—and some very awkward phone records—came calling.
6. Art Briles
Briles transformed Baylor into a national contender on the field. Off the field, he oversaw one of the biggest scandals in college football history.
5. Rich Rodriguez
Rodriguez was once one of the most coveted offensive minds in the country. But internal drama and messy departures followed him everywhere.
4. Les Miles
The Mad Hatter brought LSU a national title and endless entertainment. But post-career revelations have tarnished much of that legacy.
Read More: 16 College Football Coaches Who Left a Trail of Chaos
3. Joe Paterno
Paterno’s coaching résumé is one of the best ever. But the scandal that unfolded under his watch changed how he’ll always be remembered.
Read More: 20 College Football Coaches Who Thought They Were Untouchable
2. Woody Hayes
Woody Hayes was a college football icon with a legendary win total. He also once punched an opposing player and ended his career in disgrace.
Read More: 21 Sports Icons Who Ruined Their Reputation Overnight
1. Barry Switzer
Switzer was a winner at Oklahoma, racking up national titles and swagger along the way. But off the field, his program became a lightning rod for controversy, with legal issues and scandals piling up fast.
