College football’s coaching landscape is always shifting, and job security feels more fragile than ever. The growing buyouts and soaring expectations mean a few programs are heading into 2025 with major questions on the sidelines. Here’s a look at the coaches under the most pressure to get it right—right now.
Brent Pry – Virginia Tech
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The Hokies finished 6–7 in 2024 despite a roster filled with NFL-caliber talent. After the season, Brent Pry reshuffled his staff in an attempt to jumpstart a turnaround. However, with a $5.8 million buyout, Virginia Tech can pivot quickly if the program doesn’t show meaningful progress in 2025.
Lincoln Riley – USC
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Another season without a serious playoff run has USC fans restless. Lincoln Riley’s 7–6 mark in 2024 followed an 8–5 finish the year before, despite having Caleb Williams. The buyout—reportedly near $90 million—keeps him around for now, but patience in Los Angeles rarely lasts long.
Brent Venables – Oklahoma
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A 6–7 campaign in Oklahoma’s first year as an SEC member has fans questioning the program’s direction. Brent Venables hasn’t delivered on expectations, and while a $44.8 million buyout buys him time, that clock might tick louder if 2025 looks anything like last fall.
Brent Brennan – Arizona
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Brent Brennan inherited a promising roster from Jedd Fisch, but Arizona regressed to 4-8 in 2024. The jump to the Big 12 adds pressure, and his $7.5 million buyout won’t be a deterrent if expectations aren’t met. He needs results—and fast—to secure long-term support.
Hugh Freeze – Auburn
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Auburn lost to New Mexico State by three touchdowns and didn’t reach bowl eligibility. Hugh Freeze’s second year ended 5–7 and left fans wondering whether he’s the guy to elevate the Tigers. After all, a $20.3 million buyout is not a permanent shield.
Mike Norvell – Florida State
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Going from undefeated in 2023 to just two wins in 2024 wasn’t on anyone’s bingo card. Mike Norvell still has plenty of support inside the program, but the drop-off was staggering. His massive buyout—over $60 million—might be the only thing keeping the conversation quiet.
Luke Fickell – Wisconsin
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Wisconsin fans are loyal, but they’re not used to losing seasons. Luke Fickell’s attempt to modernize the offense backfired in 2024, and the 5–7 result raised eyebrows. Sure, he has a $40 million buyout, but pressure is mounting heading into a critical second year.
Mike Gundy – Oklahoma State
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Oklahoma State’s 2024 season went completely off the rails, finishing 3–9 and missing a bowl. Mike Gundy reworked his contract by lowering his buyout to $15 million. That may not be enough to save him if 2025 doesn’t show a sharp course correction.
Trent Dilfer – UAB
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There’s more buzz about Dilfer’s soundbites than his win column. UAB went 3–9 in his second year and has regressed since his arrival. The $3.6 million left on his deal isn’t steep either. Without a quick turnaround, he may not make it to year four.
Tony Elliott – Virginia
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Tony Elliott enters 2025 with one of the ACC’s least secure jobs. Virginia has gone 11–23 under his watch, and last season’s late losses didn’t help. He’s in the final year of his contract, and unless UVA improves, the administration will likely want a fresh start.
Mark Stoops – Kentucky
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It was only a few years ago that Mark Stoops was the SEC’s most underrated coach. A 4–8 record in 2024 put that reputation to the test. Another dud season could turn the tide.
Kalen DeBoer – Alabama
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Taking over for Nick Saban isn’t easy, but Alabama fans don’t do grace periods. Kalen DeBoer went 9–4 with a ReliaQuest Bowl loss, and that’s just not enough in Tuscaloosa.
Dave Aranda – Baylor
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Baylor bounced back to 8–5 last season, but questions still linger. Dave Aranda won the Big 12 in 2021, then dropped to 3–9 in 2023.
Mike Bloomgren – Rice
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Rice moved on from Mike Bloomgren midway through a disappointing 2024. He finished with a 24–52 overall record and struggled to keep pace in the AAC. Despite a couple of bowl appearances, inconsistent play and lagging momentum made a coaching change feel inevitable.
Kenni Burns – Kent State
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Kenni Burns didn’t even get to a third season. A 0–12 record, paired with an off-field investigation, led to a quick dismissal. His replacement hasn’t been named, but with fan support at an all-time low, Kent State’s priority is rebuilding credibility and basic competitiveness.
