In the high-stakes world of college football coaching, a track record of success is often the only currency that matters. Yet even the most promising and revered coaches can see their star fade when expectations are unmet or when their teams falter under pressure.
This listicle explores the challenging landscapes faced by ten notable college football coaches, whose recent performances have sparked questions and controversies about their future roles and legacies within their respective programs.
10. Tom Herman (Florida Atlantic)
Tom Herman’s tenure at Florida Atlantic was short-lived and disappointing. Hired in 2022 with high expectations, Herman’s team went 6-16 over two seasons, including a dismal 2-8 record in 2024. FAU fired Herman on November 18, 2024, with three years left on his contract, owing him a $4.1 million buyout.
9. Steve Sarkisian (Texas)
Despite recent success, Sarkisian’s 38-17 record at Texas falls short of expectations for a program of its caliber. His teams have struggled in close games and big moments, like the 2023 CFP loss to Washington. While recruiting well, Sarkisian has yet to prove he can consistently compete for national titles in the ultra-competitive SEC.
8. Shane Beamer (South Carolina)
Despite a promising 9-4 record in 2024, Shane Beamer’s overall 29-22 record at South Carolina is underwhelming. His teams have struggled with consistency, and he has yet to prove he can compete at the highest level in the SEC. Beamer’s recent contract extension through 2030 may be premature given his limited success.
7. Sam Pittman (Arkansas)
Sam Pittman’s initial success at Arkansas has faded. After a promising 9-4 season in 2021, the Razorbacks have regressed, going 7-6 in 2022, 4-8 in 2023, and 6-6 in 2024. Despite his popularity, Pittman’s 29-31 overall record and inability to consistently compete in the SEC raise questions about his long-term viability.
6. Kalen DeBoer (Alabama)
DeBoer’s first season at Alabama in 2024 was disappointing, with a 9-4 record including losses to unranked teams as double-digit favorites. Despite an upset win over Georgia, the Crimson Tide missed the College Football Playoff for the first time in years, raising questions about DeBoer’s ability to maintain Alabama’s elite status.
5. Mario Cristobal (Miami)
Despite high expectations, Cristobal has yet to deliver consistent success at Miami. His 2024 season ended with disappointing losses, including a 42-38 upset by Syracuse. While he’s a strong recruiter, landing quarterback Carson Beck for 2025, his in-game decision-making remains questionable. Cristobal’s inability to maximize talent and produce results in big games raises doubts about his coaching prowess.
4. James Franklin (Penn State)
Despite leading Penn State to consistent top-10 finishes, Franklin’s 1-15 record against top-5 teams raises questions. His inability to win big games, including a 1-18 overall record against top-5 opponents, overshadows his regular-season success. Critics argue Franklin’s teams often fall short in crucial moments, limiting Penn State’s championship aspirations.
3. Ryan Day (Ohio State)
Despite leading Ohio State to a national championship in 2024, Ryan Day’s record against rival Michigan (1-3) and in big games remains questionable. His teams have underperformed in crucial moments, and his coaching decisions have been criticized. Day’s success may be more attributed to Ohio State’s talent pool than his coaching abilities.
Read More: The 10 Most Important Games of the 1980s
2. Brian Kelly (LSU)
Despite his impressive record, Brian Kelly has yet to deliver a national championship at LSU. His teams have underperformed in crucial games, and his 2024 season ended with a disappointing 9-4 record. Kelly’s bold promise of a 2025 national title seems premature, given LSU’s recent struggles and inconsistent performances.
Read More: 10 Ways John Madden Revolutionized the NFL Forever
1. Lincoln Riley (USC)
Once hailed as an offensive genius, Riley’s stock has plummeted at USC. Despite a promising 11-3 debut in 2022, the Trojans went 7-6 in 2024, with a defense ranked among the nation’s worst. Riley’s inability to build a complete team has raised questions about his $110 million contract’s value.
