Grading the 2025 FBS Coaching Changes: The Winners and Losers

The High-Stakes Game of Coaching Hires

With the whirlwind of coaching changes this offseason, I find myself grappling with the implications behind each new hire and what it means for the future of college football programs. Beyond the sheer excitement of ranking these moves, it's essential to reflect on the depth of their impact.

What Makes a Successful Hire?

When analyzing coaching hires, one crucial aspect to consider is the context of each program. Factors like school culture, financial commitment, and previous coaching success form a rich tapestry that often dictates how successful a new hire will be. For example, a seemingly perfect choice might flop, while a higher-risk hire could blossom in the right environment.

The Notable Hires

In this year's coaching carousel, several names stand out:

• Lane Kiffin (LSU) - A bold move that seems to have paid off. Kiffin has consistently proven himself a winner and adds a flair that LSU desperately craved.
• Luke Fickell (Wisconsin) - This hire had all the makings of a success story, yet the Badgers struggled with a disappointing 4-8 season.
• Scott Frost (Nebraska) - Once heralded as a savior, Frost's return to Nebraska marked a painful transition. After a mere 16 wins over four years, his exit raised eyebrows nationwide.

Ranking the Hires: Methodology

I approached this analysis with a clear grading rubric, focusing on logical consistency and potential outcomes. While some teams invested heavily in established names, others chose to roll the dice on lesser-known candidates with unproven track records.

“The process of grading coaching hires immediately after they're made is often futile. We rarely know how well coaches will adapt until they've been given a chance.”

Top Grades

Right out of the gate, some hires garnered exceptional acclaim:

Grade: A+

Lane Kiffin - LSU has delivered beyond expectations. Not only has Kiffin brought a dynamic offense to the Tigers, but his swagger aligns perfectly with the Tiger culture, making this one of the best moves.

Grade: A

James Franklin - Virginia Tech also deserves mention. His proven ability to elevate programs makes his transition to Tech appear promising.

Controversial Choices

As we explore the other end of the spectrum, certain hires raised many eyebrows:

Grade: C

Pat Fitzgerald - Michigan State enters the ranks with a complicated past. Given his struggles at Northwestern, entrusting him with a Power 5 program seems risky.

Looking Forward

As the dust settles on these hirings, college football fans are left to wonder: who will thrive, and who will be looking for new jobs in a year's time? The unpredictability is what keeps us engaged. It's not just about the names or pedigree; it's about the culture, the vision, and sometimes, plain old luck. In the evolving landscape of college football, adaptability will be the name of the game.

Conclusion

As we watch these coaches navigate the highs and lows of the season, remember that success often takes time and evolution. I look forward to revisiting these rankings as the seasons unfold. Who do you think was the best hire? What potential surprises await in the 2025 season?