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Dilfer Moves to the Top of the Hot Seat Rankings. Neal Brown moves to #9.

Mark Haines on October 22, 2024

The college football season is in full swing, and with it comes the inevitable scrutiny of coaches on the hot seat. This week, we’re closely monitoring two coaches: Trent Dilfer at UAB and Neal Brown at West Virginia. Dilfer’s Blazers are off to a dismal 1-6 start, and there’s growing discontent among fans and boosters alike. Brown, meanwhile, is facing pressure to turn things around at West Virginia, where he has yet to achieve a winning record in Big 12 play. We’re also watching Mark Stoops at Kentucky, who is facing a make-or-break season with the Wildcats.

Trent Dilfer: UAB Football and the Abyss

Let’s talk about UAB football. It’s a dumpster fire. It’s a train wreck. It’s a slow, agonizing descent into the abyss. And at the helm, steering this program into oblivion, is Trent Dilfer.

Remember those halcyon days under Bill Clark? Six straight winning seasons. Two conference championships. Three straight division titles. A brand new stadium. That’s the UAB many of these players signed up for. Instead, they got Dilfer.  

Now, the boosters are whispering. They say AD Mark Ingram and the Alabama Board of Trustees are trying to kill this program. Again. And honestly, it wouldn’t surprise me with Dilfer at the helm.

The Blazers are 1-6. They haven’t beaten an FBS opponent this year. They got trounced by Army. They got annihilated by Tulane. Dilfer inherited an ascending program, and has managed to crater it in less than two years.  

This isn’t about a few tough losses. This is about a complete and utter collapse. The defense is a sieve. The offense is anemic. The team has no fight, no spirit, no hope. They’ve been outscored 156-48 in conference play. They haven’t scored a touchdown in the first half of an AAC game. This team is competitive for precisely zero seconds against any real opponent.  

And Dilfer? He’s busy insulting his program. “It’s not like this is freakin’ Alabama,” he quipped. No, Trent, it’s worse. At least Alabama fans have the dignity to expect better. UAB fans are getting fed a steady diet of excuses and empty promises.  

Dilfer can talk about turning things around. He can talk about building a winning program. But the reality is, he’s lost the team, he’s lost the fans, and he’s lost the boosters. He’s lost everything except his $1.3 million salary.  

The UAB Blazers are a mess. Trent Dilfer made it. It’s time for Mark Ingram to make this right.

Neal Brown: Feeling the Heat in West Virginia

Neal Brown, the head football coach at West Virginia University, has officially joined the hot seat rankings at #9. While his current record of 34-33 over six seasons may not seem disastrous at first glance, a deeper dive reveals a lack of progress. With zero wins against ranked opponents and no appearances in the AP Top 25 throughout his tenure, the Mountaineers are yearning for a taste of success.  

Adding fuel to the fire, a dedicated group of West Virginia fans has launched a website and campaign dubbed “Fire Neal Brown.” Their mission is clear: to see Brown removed from his position. Although their initial plan to fly a banner over the WVU football game against Kansas State was thwarted, their message resonated.  

Despite the mounting pressure and growing discontent, a mid-season firing seems unlikely. The financial burden of a buyout, the potential for player exodus through the transfer portal, and the lingering (albeit slim) possibility of a Big 12 championship appearance make immediate action impractical. However, Brown’s days in Morgantown could be numbered if the Mountaineers’ performance doesn’t drastically improve.  

What are your thoughts? Who should be higher or lower on the list? Comment here.

See our full list of all 134 FBS coaches here.

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Trent Dilfer’s UAB Tenure: A Program-Killer in the Making?

Mark Haines on October 15, 2024

Is this a program-killer in the making?

Picture this: It’s a crisp autumn Saturday in Birmingham, Alabama. The stands at Protective Stadium are sparse, and the energy is subdued. On the sideline, a man with a Super Bowl ring on his finger and a deer-in-headlights look in his eyes watches as his team gets steamrolled.

This isn’t some fever dream. This is the reality of UAB football under Trent Dilfer.

Now, I’ve seen my fair share of coaching hot seats. But Dilfer’s? It’s not just hot. It’s supernova hot. We’re talking “center of the sun” hot. And here’s the kicker: It’s all happening faster than you can say “freakin’ Alabama.”

The Unlikely Experiment Gone Wrong

In the high-stakes world of college football, UAB decided to roll the dice on a former NFL quarterback turned high school coach with zero college experience. It was the kind of move that either ends up in the genius column or… well, let’s say it’s currently trending towards the “What Were They Thinking?” file.

As Joseph Goodman, the lead sports columnist for the Alabama Media Group puts it: “There was always a chance at UAB with Trent Dilfer that things could go horribly wrong in a hurry. Well, we’re here after six weeks of his second season on the Southside.”

The Numbers Don’t Lie

If football is a game of inches, then Dilfer’s UAB tenure is currently measuring in negative yardage. Let’s break it down:

  • 2023 season: 4-8 record
  • 2024 season (so far): 1-5 overall, 0-2 in AAC
  • Signature win: A 41-3 victory over… Alcorn State (no offense to the Braves)
  • Signature loss: A 71-20 demolition by Tulane that was 57-6 after three quarters

Goodman is blunt in his assessment: “If not for UMass, UAB might be the worst team in the entire Football Bowl Subdivision.”

Dilfer’s Dilemma: Words and Actions

But here’s the thing about football – it’s not just about the numbers. It’s about the intangibles. The energy. The momentum. The belief. And that’s where Dilfer’s tenure gets even more puzzling.

After a crushing loss to Navy, Dilfer casually remarked, “It’s not like this is freakin’ Alabama.” In a state where football isn’t just a sport but a religion, in a program perpetually fighting for respect, those seven words were like a tactical nuke to team morale.

It’s the kind of comment that makes you wonder: Does Dilfer understand where he is? Does he grasp the history, struggle, and passion that define UAB football?

Goodman hits the nail on the head: “Dilfer’s blind loyalty is making things difficult for the Blazers.” He’s referring to Dilfer’s decision to hire a high school buddy as defensive coordinator instead of bringing in experienced college talent. It’s a move that screams, “I don’t know what I don’t know.”

The $4.1 Million Question

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting. Dilfer’s contract is a fascinating study in risk management – or lack thereof. His base salary? A cool $1.2 million per year. But the real kicker is the buyout clause. If UAB decides to cut bait after December 1, 2024, they’re on the hook for $4.1 million.

In the economics of college football, where athletic departments often operate on razor-thin margins, that’s not just a number. It’s a potential program-killer.

And for UAB, the term “program-killer” isn’t just hyperbole. It’s a very real specter of the past.

The Phoenix That Might Fall Again

Here’s the thing about UAB football: it’s not just a program. It’s a survivor—a phoenix. In 2014, the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees pulled the plug on UAB football, citing financial concerns. But the city of Birmingham and the UAB faithful fought back. They raised millions. And in 2017, UAB football rose from the dead.

Under coach Bill Clark, the resurrected Blazers didn’t just survive. They thrived. Conference titles. Bowl games. Winning seasons stacked on winning seasons.

And now? Dilfer’s struggles aren’t just disappointing. They’re existential.

Goodman voices a fear becoming all too real: “My biggest fear… is that the Board of Trustees is just going to kill the football team again.”

In this context, Dilfer’s failures aren’t just about wins and losses. They’re potentially jeopardizing a program that fought tooth and nail for its right to exist.

The Road Ahead: Survival at Stake

At this crossroads, the question isn’t just whether Dilfer can turn things around. It’s whether any competent coach will ever get the chance to and at what cost.

Will Dilfer pull off a miracle? Can he channel the spirit of Bill Clark, the coach who not only won games but also won the existential battle for UAB football’s very soul?

Or will this experiment go down as the costliest mistake in UAB football history – one that could potentially lead to another existential crisis for the program?

One thing’s for sure: The heat is on in the pressure cooker of college football. And for Trent Dilfer, the clock isn’t just ticking. It’s a time bomb.

Goodman leaves us with a sobering thought: “It’s now on President Watts to fix UAB football, and the good doctor might need to bring his scalpel for the job.”

In Birmingham, they’re not just watching a football season unfold. They’re witnessing a $4.1 million question play out in real time. And for UAB fans, alumni, and administrators, the answer can’t come soon enough. Because this time, it’s not just about winning or losing. It’s about surviving. Again.

And Trent Dilfer? He’s not just on the hot seat. He’s sitting on a powder keg of a program’s hopes, dreams, and existence. The question is: Will he be the one to light the fuse?

Updated Hot Seat Rankings

Our updated Hot Seat Rankings are out for all 134 FBS coaches. Check it out here and see where your coach falls on the list. Think someone should be higher or lower? Let us know here.

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Week 7 – Hot Seat Rankings Overview

Mark Haines on October 8, 2024

In college football’s high-stakes arena, where multimillion-dollar decisions hinge on the outcome of a single play, a silent countdown ticks away. We’re approaching the season’s midpoint, that critical juncture where athletic directors start crunching numbers that have nothing to do with touchdowns or field goals.

Welcome to this week’s Coaches Hot Seat Rankings, where we peel back the curtain on the beautifully absurd world of college football economics.

Forget win-loss records for a moment (though they’re the fuel that feeds this fire). Forget rivalry games and conference standings (the kindling, if you will). Today, we’re diving headfirst into the labyrinthine world of contract buyouts—those golden parachutes that can turn a simple firing into a financial apocalypse.

We’ve identified the top 5 coaches whose seats aren’t just hot—they’re scorching. But here’s the twist: their fates aren’t sealed by X’s and O’s alone. No, these men are trapped in a game where the final score is tallied not on a scoreboard but in a boardroom.

1. Dave Aranda – Baylor

The whispers in the autumn air swirled like fallen leaves in Waco, carrying the weight of a season teetering on the brink. Twenty million dollars. That’s what the murmurs said it would cost Baylor to part ways with their enigmatic head coach, Dave Aranda, had they yielded to the mounting pressure after last season’s disappointment. Of course, Baylor shrouded in the Baptist mists of private university secrecy, keeps its coffers as close to the vest as its playbook. But let’s just say, with a contract stretching all the way to 2029, sixteen million – at the very least – is a reasonable guess.

Now, picture this: a coach, lauded as a defensive genius, finds himself at 2-4, staring down the barrel of a must-win scenario. Six games remain, and the magic number is six wins to secure bowl eligibility, a seemingly simple feat for a man who once orchestrated defenses that could suffocate the life out of the most potent offenses. But the gridiron gods are fickle, and the past two seasons have been a harsh reminder that even the best-laid plans can crumble beneath the weight of expectation.

The word on the street, from those who claim to know the inner workings of the Baylor machine, is this: a bowl game is no longer just a desire, it’s a necessity. Aranda, the stoic philosopher-coach, stands at a crossroads, his back against the wall with the clock ticking relentlessly. Can he summon the magic that once propelled him to the mountaintop, leading the Bears to a Big 12 Championship and a Sugar Bowl victory in 2021? Or will the weight of that hefty contract and the mounting pressure of a 2-4 record prove too much to bear?

The answer, my friends, lies hidden in the swirling chaos of the remaining six games. And like any good mystery, we’ll all be watching with bated breath, wondering if Aranda can pull off a miracle in Waco or if this is the beginning of the end.

2. Billy Napier – Florida

The air in Gainesville crackles with the electricity of a fanbase on the verge. It’s not just the humidity; it’s the palpable tension surrounding Billy Napier and his Florida Gators. A 2-3 start, a record as muggy and unpredictable as a Florida summer, has the Swamp simmering with a potent mix of frustration and fear. Napier, the supposed architect of a Gator renaissance, now finds himself staring down the jaws of a $28 million buyout, a figure that could make even the most die-hard booster reach for the smelling salts.

Jimmy Sexton, Napier’s agent and a man who could negotiate a raise out of a pauper, crafted a deal that would make Scrooge McDuck blush. Eighty-five percent of the remaining contract value, a cool $27,996,875 to be exact, is owed to Napier should the Gators decide to cut bait. And let’s be clear: in the win-or-else world of SEC football, where patience is as rare as a sober Saturday night in the Swamp, that kind of financial commitment can feel like an anvil around the neck of a struggling program.

Now, picture this: a coach, once hailed as the next big thing, wading through the murky waters of mediocrity. The ghosts of Spurrier and Meyer loom large, their championship rings glinting like hungry alligator eyes, reminding everyone of a bygone era of Gator dominance. But the present reality bites: 14-18 under Napier, with the echoes of those agonizing losses reverberating through the stadium.

The whispers in the Swamp are reaching a fever pitch, fueled by the anxiety of a fanbase yearning for a return to glory. “Twenty-eight million,” they murmur, the number hanging like Spanish moss. It’s a fortune, a sum that could buy a whole lot of orange and blue Kool-Aid, enough to drown out the sour taste of another lost season. But is it worth it? Is Napier’s methodical approach and unwavering faith in “the process” the right man to lead the Gators back to the promised land? Or is this another expensive experiment gone wrong, a cautionary tale of misplaced hope and exorbitant buyouts?

Seven games remain. Seven chances for Napier to rewrite the narrative, to silence the doubters, and to justify that eye-popping price tag. Once a cauldron of unbridled enthusiasm, the Swamp now simmers with a volatile mix of anticipation and dread. Will Napier rise to the occasion, or will he become another victim of the relentless meat grinder that is SEC football? The clock is ticking, the stakes are high, and the fate of the Gators hangs in the balance.

3. Will Hall – Southern Mississippi

The air in Hattiesburg is thick with tension, heavier than the humidity that hangs over the Mississippi pines. Will Hall, the hometown hero supposed to lead Southern Miss back to the promised land, finds himself on the precipice. A dismal 1-4 start has the Golden Eagles teetering on the brink of another lost season, and with just six games left on the schedule, Hall’s coaching career at his alma mater hangs by a thread.

Remember the fanfare when Hall arrived? He is a conquering hero with a shiny new contract and a 60% raise over his predecessor. Hope and optimism filled the air, a belief that this Southern Miss boy could restore the program to its former glory. Now, that contract is about to expire, and the only thing shining brighter than Hall’s initial promise is the exit sign.

$800,000 a year. That’s what Southern Miss invested in Will Hall—a significant sum for a program trying to claw its way back to relevance. But in the ruthless world of college football, where wins are the only legal tender, that salary is starting to look like a sunk cost.

And here’s the cold, hard truth: there’s no safety net. No hefty buyout to cushion the fall. If Southern Miss decides Hall isn’t the man for the job, they can show him the door at the end of the season, no strings attached. No messy divorce, no multi-million dollar payout. Just a handshake and a “thanks for your time.”

The whispers in the stands are getting louder with every loss. “One and four,” they murmur, the words echoing through the empty seats at M.M. Roberts Stadium. “Can he even make it to the end of the season?” they wonder, their voices filled with pity and resignation.

Six games. Six games to save his job. There are six opportunities for Will Hall to rewrite the narrative and prove he’s not just another overhyped coaching casualty. Six chances to silence the doubters and earn a contract extension, or pack his bags and head back to the drawing board. The clock is ticking, the pressure is relentless, and the future of Southern Miss football hangs in the balance. Can Will Hall pull off a miracle and salvage his career in Hattiesburg, or will these be his final six games leading the Golden Eagles? The answer, my friends, is blowing in the Mississippi wind.

4. Sonny Cumbie – Lousiana Tech

The buzz around Sonny Cumbie’s arrival in Ruston has faded faster than a Louisiana sunset. The high-flying offensive guru, lured to Louisiana Tech with a five-year, $4.85 million contract, finds himself grounded with a disappointing 1-3 start. Eight games remain in the season, and the whispers are starting to swirl: is Cumbie already on the hot seat?

$900,000. That’s what Louisiana Tech is shelling out for Cumbie this year, a figure that escalates to a cool million over the final three years of his deal. They even sweetened the pot with a $1.4 million pool for his assistants, hoping to build a coaching powerhouse in the heart of Cajun country. But with the Bulldogs sputtering out of the gate, that investment is starting to look like a risky proposition.

Cumbie’s contract is littered with incentives – bonuses for conference championships, bowl game appearances, and even boosting the team GPA. But right now, those incentives seem about as attainable as a snowball fight in July. The Bulldogs need a dramatic turnaround, and they need it fast, or those hefty bonuses will remain untouched like a forgotten bowl of gumbo.

And what about that buyout? If Louisiana Tech decides to cut ties with Cumbie, they’re on the hook for 75% of his remaining salary. It’s a hefty sum, but not impossible, especially if the Bulldogs continue their downward spiral. Will the administration pull the trigger or give Cumbie more time to prove himself?

The pressure is mounting in Ruston. The fans, accustomed to winning seasons and bowl game appearances, are growing restless. “One and three,” they mutter, the words hanging heavy in the humid air. “Is this all we get for $4.85 million?” they wonder, their voices filled with disappointment and frustration.

Eight games. Eight games for Sonny Cumbie to turn things around, silence the doubters, and justify that hefty price tag. Eight opportunities to prove he’s the offensive mastermind Louisiana Tech thought they were getting, or become another casualty in the high-stakes world of college football. The clock is ticking, the stakes are high, and the future of the Bulldogs hangs in the balance. Can Cumbie orchestrate a comeback, or will his time in Ruston be cut short? Only time will tell.

5. Trent Dilfer – Alabama Birmingham

UAB - Auburn

Attendance was sparse at the last UAB football game on October 5, 2024

They say hindsight is 20/20, but in the case of Trent Dilfer and UAB, it felt more like a train wreck in slow motion. The former Super Bowl-winning quarterback, with his ESPN pedigree and high school coaching success, was supposed to be the savior of Blazers football. Instead, he’s become a $3.6 million cautionary tale.

Remember the hype? Dilfer, the brash outsider with a big personality, would shake things up in Birmingham. He would bring national attention to a program that had clawed its way back from the dead. But now, two seasons in, the only thing he’s shaking up is the antacid aisle at the local pharmacy.

A dismal 1-4 start to the season, including a 71-20 drubbing at the hands of Tulane, has the Blazers faithful calling for Dilfer’s head. His off-the-field antics—comparing UAB to Alabama, criticizing NIL, and even taking shots at the volleyball team—haven’t endeared him to the fanbase either.

And then there’s that contract—$1.2 million a year, with a $3.6 million buyout if he’s fired after this season. That’s a lot of money to eat, even for a program that’s seen its share of financial struggles. But at this point, it might be cheaper to cut their losses and move on.

The whispers in the stands have turned into full-blown shouting matches. “Dilfer out!” they chant, their voices echoing through the half-empty stadium. “This experiment has failed!” they declare, their patience worn thinner than a cheap game-day t-shirt.

It’s hard to argue with them. Dilfer’s record at UAB is a dismal 5-12. He’s alienated the fans, the players, and even some folks on campus. His “springboard job” has turned into a quicksand pit, and he’s sinking fast.

So, what now? Does UAB bite the bullet and pay the $3.6 million buyout? Do they try to salvage something from this disastrous experiment and hope for a miraculous turnaround? Or do they simply let the season play out and send Dilfer packing with a handshake and a “don’t let the door hit you on the way out”?

The clock is ticking, the pressure is mounting, and the future of UAB football hangs in the balance. One thing’s for sure: the Trent Dilfer era in Birmingham can’t end soon enough.

See where your coach falls on the Coaches Hot Seat.

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Vote for Your Hot Seat Takes

Mark Haines on October 6, 2024

Every win matters. Every loss stings. But some coaches are feeling the heat more than others. Who deserves to be on the hot seat? Your vote counts.

Win/Loss results for last week’s rankings appear below.

Cast your vote here.

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The Coaching Carousel: A Wild Ride of Buyouts, Bargains, and Burnt Biscuits

Mark Haines on October 1, 2024

Hefty Buyouts Await 4 of Our Top 5

Let’s go on a whirlwind tour of the college football coaching carousel, where the stakes are high, the contracts are crazy, and the pressure is hotter than a two-dollar pistol. We’re talkin’ buyouts that could make your head spin, fan bases ready to revolt, and coaches clinging to their jobs like a possum to a persimmon tree.

First Stop: Gainesville, Florida

Picture this: The Swamp, home of the Florida Gators, where the humidity rivals the pressure to win, and the athletic department operates like it’s stuck in a time warp. We’re talkin’ Windows 95 computers, flip phones, and a fax machine that’s practically considered cutting-edge technology.

Now, enter Billy Napier, stage left, with a seven-year, $50 million contract and a dream to restore the Gators to their former glory. The problem is that dreams don’t always translate to touchdowns, especially when you’re battling more than just your opponents.

Napier, bless his heart, he’s got the pedigree. Came down from Louisiana with a winning record, a folksy charm, and a playbook thicker than a Faulkner novel. But the SEC? It’s a different animal. It’s where good coaches go to get chewed up and spit out, their reputations left to bake on the asphalt like a forgotten lovebug.

And right now, Napier’s feeling the heat. His record? A less-than-stellar 13-16 (.448) The boosters? They’re restless, pacing the sidelines like caged panthers, their wallets bulging with buyout money. We’re talking $27.7 million to show Napier the door. That’s enough to buy every player on the roster a personalized yacht with a Gatorade fountain on deck and maybe even upgrade the athletic department’s internet to broadband while they’re at it.

But here’s the catch: even if they send Napier packing with a golden parachute, it won’t fix the root of the problem. This isn’t just about the coach, folks. It’s about a whole system that’s stuck in the dark ages. It’s about an athletic department that’s more concerned with balancing the budget on an abacus than building a winning program.

So, what’s the play? Do the Gators cut their losses and write a check that’d make your eyes water? Or do they finally face the music and realize that a complete overhaul is needed, from the coaching staff to the IT department? Because in the SEC, honey, there’s no middle ground. You either evolve or get left behind, fossilized like a prehistoric gator in the swamp of mediocrity.

Next Up: Waco, Texas

Now, let’s move on over to Waco, Texas, where the Baylor Bears are facing a dilemma of biblical proportions. Their head coach, Dave Aranda, is a man of few words and even fewer wins lately. Remember that magical 2021 season? Big 12 champs, Sugar Bowl victors, the whole nine yards? Since then, it’s been more like “the whole nine losses,” and the fans are starting to sound like a swarm of angry bees.

Aranda, see, he’s a defensive mastermind. The kind of guy who can draw up a blitz package that’d make your head spin faster than a Texas tornado. But lately, his offense has been about as exciting as watching paint dry in the Waco sun. And those wins? Well, they’ve been harder to come by than a parking spot at the Silos on a Saturday afternoon. It is so hard to come by that the once-packed McLane Stadium is starting to look like a ghost town.

Now, here’s where it gets interesting. As a private institution, Baylor keeps its finances tighter than a drum. So, we don’t know the exact details of Aranda’s contract. But rumor has it, his buyout is a cool $20 million. That’s enough to buy a lifetime supply of Dr Pepper for every student on campus and still have enough left over to build a replica of the Alamo… with heated seats.

But here’s the thing: it’s not just about the money. The Baylor faithful are losing their patience. They’re tired of watching their beloved Bears get mauled week after week. The grumbling in the stands has turned into a full-blown roar, and the pitchforks are practically at the door of Aranda’s office.

So, the question is: do the Bears bite the bullet and pay Aranda a king’s ransom to walk away? Or do they stick with him, hoping he can rediscover that 2021 magic and silence the angry mob? It’s a tough call, folks. Aranda’s a good guy and a solid coach. But in the cutthroat world of college football, nice guys often finish last… and get handed a hefty severance package on their way out the door, accompanied by the boos of a disgruntled fanbase.

The pressure’s on in Waco. Will the Bears double down on Aranda or cut their losses? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: this is one expensive game of Texas Hold’em, and Baylor’s holding a pair of deuces with a fanbase threatening to burn the whole casino down.

Rolling into Fayetteville

Next, we’re headed to Fayetteville, Arkansas, where the Razorbacks are wrestling with a problem that’s stranger than a hog in a tuxedo. Their head coach, Sam Pittman, is a good ol’ boy with a heart of gold and a drawl thicker than molasses. He would invite you over for a barbecue, regale you with stories about his playing days, and then send you home with a Tupperware full of leftovers. But right now, those leftovers might be all he’s got left to give.

See, Pittman’s currently sitting at a 26-27 record (.491), which is about as comfortable as a pair of overalls in a sauna. And that record has got the whole state of Arkansas sweating bullets because it’s tied to this “goofy” buyout clause in his contract that’s got everyone scratching their heads. If the Razorbacks decide to give him the boot, the amount they owe him depends on whether that record tips above or below .500. Above? A cool $12.15 million. Below? A slightly less cool $8.1 million. It’s like a bizarre game show where the prize is getting fired, and the consolation prize is still a mountain of cash.

Now, Pittman started strong. In 2021, he had the Hogs squealing with delight, leading them to a 9-4 season and a Top 25 finish. But lately? The wheels have come off the tractor, and the Razorbacks are wallowing in mediocrity. They’re teetering on that .500 mark, like a tightrope walker with a fear of heights and a hefty life insurance policy.

So, what’s a university to do? Do they pay Pittman $12 million to hit the road, or do they gamble on him turning things around and potentially saving themselves a few million bucks? It’s a high-stakes poker game, folks, and the pot is sweetened with a side of Southern-fried absurdity.

The pressure’s on in Fayetteville. Will the Razorbacks ante up and send Pittman packing with a golden handshake? Or will they hold their cards and hope for a winning hand? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: this is one wild ride, and the only thing crazier than the buyout clause is that we’re all glued to our seats, waiting to see how it all plays out.

Down South with the Golden Eagles

Now, let’s dive headfirst into the chaotic world of Southern Miss football, where the Golden Eagles are flapping their wings a little too close to the flames. Their head coach, Will Hall, is a man with a fiery spirit, a four-year contract ticking down faster than a Mississippi minute, and an offense sputtering like a lawnmower on its last legs.

Hall inked that deal in 2020, promising him a cool $800,000 yearly. Not bad, right? But here’s where it gets interesting: this is the FINAL ACT, folks. The last year of that contract. Which means that buyout everyone was sweating about? It’s practically evaporated faster than a puddle of sweat on a Hattiesburg sidewalk.

Instead of millions, we’re talkin’ chump change. A couple of hundred grand, maybe even less. Suddenly, those Golden Eagles administrators look like they have stumbled onto a Black Friday sale on coaches.

But here’s the twist: this isn’t an ordinary clearance rack. This is Will Hall, a coach with the passion of a thousand suns but a colder record than a Mississippi winter. Turnovers? They’re happening faster than you can say “To The Top!” Third-down conversions? They’re about as rare as winning lottery tickets in Hattiesburg.

And the fans? They’re restless. They’re tired of watching their beloved Eagles lay eggs on the field. The grumbling in the stands is reaching a fever pitch, and Hall’s seat is the only thing hotter than the Mississippi humidity. With each loss, that four-year contract isn’t just a ticking time bomb; it’s a firecracker about to explode in his face.

So, what’s the play? Do the Golden Eagles say, “Hey, for this price, might as well let him ride it out,” or do they decide a change is needed NOW, consequences be damned? It’s a high-stakes poker game with the whole program’s future on the line.

Hall’s gotta win and win BIG to save his job. The Golden Eagles must decide if they will gamble on a Hail Mary or if it’s time to cut their losses and start fresh. Either way, this final act will be one hell of a show.

The Sonny Cumbie Quandary: Louisiana Tech’s $1 Million Gamble (Or Is It a Million-Dollar Headache?)

Let’s sashay over to Ruston, Louisiana, where the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs face a stickier predicament than a bowl of gumbo gone wrong. Their head coach, Sonny Cumbie, is a young gun with a five-year contract that, on paper, seemed like a steal. But with the Bulldogs barking up the wrong tree lately, that contract’s starting to look more like a financial albatross.

Cumbie signed on the dotted line back in 2021, agreeing to a $4.85 million deal that would pay him a cool $1 million in 2024. It’s not a bad payday for a coach trying to make his mark in college football. But here’s where it gets interesting: if Louisiana Tech decides to give him the boot, they’re on the hook for 75% of that remaining salary.

You might be thinking, “75% of a million bucks? That’s a hefty chunk of change!” And you’d be right. But here’s the twist: that million dollars is spread out over the remaining years of his contract, which runs through January 2027. So, we’re not talking about a single lump sum payment that’d break the bank. It’s more like a series of installments on a slightly overpriced used pickup truck.

But here’s the real kicker: Cumbie’s got this contract loaded with incentives. Win the Conference USA championship? Bonus cash! Lead the Bulldogs to a bowl game? More money! Boost the team’s GPA? Cha-ching! It’s like a college football version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” except the lifelines are touchdowns, and academic probation is the equivalent of losing all your money.

So, the question is: do the Bulldogs cut their losses and pay Cumbie a modest sum to walk away? Or do they stick with him, hoping he can turn things around and cash in on those sweet incentives? It’s a gamble, folks. Cumbie’s got potential, but potential doesn’t always translate to wins on the scoreboard.

The pressure’s on in Ruston. Will the Bulldogs roll the dice on Cumbie and hope for a winning hand? Or will they fold and start fresh with a new coach and strategy?

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The Huddle’s Getting Tense: Week 5’s Hottest Seats Revealed

Mark Haines on September 24, 2024

1. Billy Napier – Florida Gators

First Win, Same Old Problems

Napier finally got a W, but let’s not kid ourselves. Mississippi State was fresh off a loss to Toledo. Florida’s offense looked better, but it was more about Mississippi State’s defensive scheme than Napier’s brilliance.

And the defense? Yikes. Soft zones, missed tackles, and a general sense of panic against an up-tempo offense. If Mississippi State can shred them, imagine what UCF or Tennessee will do.

The 17-point margin is deceptive. This game was a nail-biter until the final minutes.

Nick Saban’s comments on GameDay cut to the heart of the matter. He wasn’t pointing fingers at the coaches but rather at the administration. Florida’s had a revolving door of coaches since the glory days of Spurrier and Meyer. Saban suggested that perhaps the issue lies in the athletic department and the university’s commitment to providing the resources and support necessary for sustained success. It takes more than just hiring a good coach; it takes a culture of winning that permeates the entire program. Gator Nation needs to understand that the solution might lie beyond the sidelines. When this job opens up again, Florida’s administration needs to be ready to demonstrate a real commitment to building a championship program if they want to attract a top-tier coach. Right now, this isn’t a very attractive job.

2. Dave Aranda – Baylor Bears

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The Heat Is On: Decoding the Coaches Hot Seat

Mark Haines on September 19, 2024

In the high-stakes college football world, where millions of dollars and countless dreams hang in the balance, a phrase sends shivers down the spine of even the most seasoned coaches: “the hot seat.” But what does it mean to be on the hot seat? Let’s dive in and dissect this phenomenon that keeps coaches up at night and fans buzzing with speculation.

How We Determine Our Rankings

At Coaches Hot Seat, we don’t just throw around vague notions of who’s in trouble. We quantify it. We rank all 134 FBS coaches, from the scalding hot #1 to the ice-cold #134. And let me tell you, it’s not just about who’s about to get fired. You’ll find names like Kirby Smart, Lane Kiffin, and Steve Sarkisian on our list, and trust me, they’re not packing up their offices anytime soon.

So, what does it mean to be closer to that #1 spot? It’s simple: pressure. Intense, unrelenting, microscopic pressure. Every decision, every word, every damn phone call is scrutinized like it’s the Zapruder film. Our top ten? They’re living in a fishbowl with piranha-like fans and media circling 24/7.

You might wonder, “How do you develop these rankings?” It’s a cocktail of analytics and expert opinions, shaken, not stirred. Is it perfect? Hell no. It’s as subjective as your aunt’s holiday fruitcake recipe. But here’s the kicker – your voice matters. We’ve got a little something in our model called “fan sentiment.” Those heated debates on our message boards? Yeah, they’re part of the equation.

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Coaches Hot Seat Week #4: Sizzling Sidelines and Cooling Cushions!

Mark Haines on September 17, 2024

1. Billy Napier – Florida

The Gator Pit: Billy Napier’s Sinking Ship and Florida’s Rotting Hull

In the swamps of Gainesville, a tragicomedy is unfolding. Billy Napier, once hailed as Florida’s football savior, is watching his career circle the drain faster than a punted football. But this isn’t just a story of a coach out of his depth—it’s a tale of institutional decay that would make even the most ardent Gator fan weep.

Napier’s Nightmare by the Numbers

  • 12-16 overall record (That’s .429 for the math-challenged)
  • 6-11 in the SEC (Where football dreams go to die)
  • 7 straight losses to FBS opponents (A streak that would make even the Vanderbilt of old blush)
  • 0-4 vs. rivals and in bowl games (Goose eggs aren’t just for breakfast anymore)

The A&M Massacre

Saturday’s game against Texas A&M wasn’t just a loss; it was a public execution on turf:

  • Outgained 488-301 (David vs. Goliath, if David forgot his slingshot)
  • Possession time: 37:46 to 22:14 (A&M hogged the ball like a kid with the last cookie)
  • First-half shutout at home (Last seen when Napoleon was still conquering Europe)

The $26 Million Question

Napier’s buyout could fund a small country, but as one insider said, “The Gators can’t afford not to fire him.” When losing a coach costs less than keeping him, you know you’re in the Twilight Zone of college football.

The Rotting Swamp

But wait, there’s more! Florida’s problems run deeper than Napier’s inability to win a game of checkers, let alone football:

  1. Facilities straight out of “That ’70s Show”
  2. An athletic department running on Windows 95
  3. NIL strategy? What’s that?
  4. Transfer portal prowess of a flip phone in an iPhone world

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Week 3 Coaches Hot Seat Rankings: Who’s Feeling the Burn and Who’s About to Get Torched?

Mark Haines on September 10, 2024

1. Billy Napier – Florida

A High-Stakes Balancing Act

Billy Napier’s time in Gainesville is fast becoming a cautionary tale of what happens when a promising coaching hire collides head-on with the unforgiving realities of SEC football. After two-plus seasons at the helm of the Florida Gators, Napier has not only failed to ignite the fire fans had hoped for but also finds himself doused in a cold bath of doubt and second-guessing. His record? A tepid 11-15. His latest chapter? A 6-game losing skid that reads like a death spiral, punctuated by 11 losses in his last 14 outings against Power 5 competition.

Where Things Stand Now: A Program on the Brink

Napier’s Gators opened this season with a 41-17 faceplant against Miami—a performance with the Florida faithful clutching their pearls and boosters reaching for their checkbooks, not to invest but to buy out. The offense, lacking punch and rhythm, seems less like a coordinated attack and more like a jazz improvisation gone wrong. Meanwhile, the defense has been shredded with the kind of ease that has rivals circling like sharks in a tide of blood. And as if that weren’t enough, Nick Saban, the Oracle of Tuscaloosa, took a not-so-subtle jab at the program’s culture, suggesting it’s not up to SEC standards. When the godfather of college football speaks, the echo reverberates across the conference.

To add to Napier’s woes, he’s staring down the barrel of what many are calling the most challenging schedule in school history. No team in the country—not even a powerhouse like Florida—gets to skate by on mediocrity when the SEC gauntlet is loaded with landmines from top to bottom.

Pressure Cookers and Powder Kegs: Why Napier is Running Out of Time

If you’re a head coach at Florida, you’re not just managing a football team—you’re handling the emotional volatility of an entire state. And right now, the fanbase and boosters are running out of patience. Their expectations were sky-high when Napier arrived, believing he was the tactical mind who could return the Gators to glory. Instead, they’ve got a team that looks like it’s sleepwalking through the SEC. Add a string of early-season firings across college football and the precedent is set: no one is safe, not even in September.

But firing a coach isn’t as simple as pulling the plug. There’s the small matter of Napier’s buyout—an eye-watering $25 million if he’s let go this season. That’s the financial anchor that can keep even the hottest seats from spontaneously combusting. Plus, Florida’s historical tendency has been to at least give their head coaches until October.

The Road Ahead: A Future That Could Be Written in Weeks, Not Months

So, where does this leave Billy Napier? At a precipice, with both feet teetering over the edge. The next few weeks will be defining. You’d think last week’s win against Samford offered a brief reprieve, a momentary gasp of air, but it didn’t. A string of losses in SEC play could transform simmering discontent into outright mutiny. And at Florida, once the tide of booster sentiment turns, it can be impossible to turn back. The stakes? Enormous. The margin for error? Nonexistent. Napier isn’t just coaching for his job—he’s fighting to keep Florida from becoming another cautionary tale of how quickly things can fall apart in the unforgiving world of college football.

2. Sam Pittman – Arkansas

Arkansas: A Program Teetering on the Edge

For Sam Pittman, the head coach at Arkansas, the honeymoon phase has long since ended, and the stark reality of life in the SEC West has settled in. Coming off a nail-biting double-overtime loss to #16 Oklahoma State, 39-31, Pittman finds himself in a precarious position—caught between the promise of potential and the pressure of unmet expectations. And in Fayetteville, patience is not a virtue; it’s a fleeting luxury.

The Brutal Math of Close Games: A Coach’s Nightmare

Pittman’s record in close games tells the tale of a team that can’t seem to get out of its own way. Over the last two-plus seasons, the Razorbacks are a dismal 3-10 in games decided by seven points or less. That’s more than just bad luck; it’s a pattern. And patterns, especially the losing kind, have a way of becoming narratives that are hard to shake.

Mistakes, it seems, have been Pittman’s constant companion. Turnovers, penalties, and missed field goals are like recurring nightmares that the Razorbacks can’t wake up from. Even when the team shows flashes of brilliance, they stumble at the finish line. There’s a sense that they can compete, but when the clock’s winding down and the game’s on the line, they lack the killer instinct to close the deal.

Mounting Pressure: A Fanbase Running Out of Patience

There’s nothing like a season of self-inflicted wounds to turn up the heat on a head coach. After a disappointing 2023 campaign, Razorback fans are growing restless. They’re not just frustrated—they’re questioning whether Pittman can be the guy to lead this program back to relevance in a brutal SEC West. The expectations for 2024 were clear: show improvement, deliver wins, and reignite a fanbase that’s lost its spark. Anything short of that, and the whispers of discontent will grow into full-throated calls for change.

Pittman knows he’s not just coaching for his job—he’s managing a precarious balancing act between keeping fans engaged and maintaining the critical support of donors. Wins generate excitement, and excitement brings in money. Without either, the financial foundation of a program can start to look shaky.

Reasons for Hope? A Few Bright Spots Amid the Clouds

Still, it’s not all doom and gloom on The Hill. The Razorbacks showed fight in their double-overtime loss to a strong Oklahoma State team—enough to suggest that there’s some bite left in this squad. The schedule ahead also offers a glimmer of hope, with winnable games against UAB, Auburn, and Texas A&M. These matchups represent more than just potential wins; they’re lifelines for a coach whose seat is getting warmer by the week.

There’s also been a significant overhaul on the offensive side of the coaching staff, a move that signals Pittman is willing to make changes to right the ship. But in the cutthroat world of college football, especially in the SEC, moral victories and coaching shakeups only buy so much time. At some point, it comes down to one simple thing: winning.

The Weeks Ahead: Crunch Time for Pittman in Fayetteville

As it stands, Sam Pittman’s seat isn’t just warm—it’s on the verge of catching fire. The UAB game looms large, not just as a must-win but as a critical turning point for a season and, potentially, a tenure. Following that, the Razorbacks enter a gauntlet of SEC matchups against Auburn and Texas A&M. Wins in these games could provide Pittman the breathing room he desperately needs. Losses? They could make his seat unbearable.

In the high-stakes world of SEC football, every game is a referendum on a coach’s future. And for Sam Pittman, that future is hanging in the balance. If he can’t deliver victories—and soon—Arkansas Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek may have no choice but to start looking for a new direction.

3. Dave Aranda – Baylor

The Balance Between Defense and Desperation

Dave Aranda finds himself walking a tightrope at Baylor, where the promise of defensive prowess is increasingly overshadowed by offensive ineptitude. The Bears’ recent 23-12 loss to #11 Utah in Week 2 is just the latest chapter in a saga of struggles against top-tier competition. Baylor fans are left wondering if Aranda’s tenure, once filled with optimism after a Sugar Bowl win, is now defined more by frustration than by future hope.

Offensive Woes: The Achilles’ Heel of Aranda’s Bears

The crux of Baylor’s problems lies in an offense that seems perpetually stuck in neutral. Putting up only 48 total yards in the first half against Utah is more than just a bad stat line; it’s a glaring indictment of an attack that’s failed to gain traction. And it’s not just a one-off issue—since that triumphant Sugar Bowl win in 2022, Baylor has gone 0-9 against ranked opponents. The narrative has become painfully clear: this team can’t win shootouts, and it struggles to even compete when faced with top-tier talent.

Fans and analysts alike are beginning to point fingers at both the offensive play calling and the development—or lack thereof—of the quarterback position. The frustration is palpable. If you can’t trust your quarterback to lead an effective offense, what’s left? And if Baylor’s best strategy is to simply “keep it close” rather than dominate, how far can that really take them in the hyper-competitive Big 12?

Pressure Mounting: A Fanbase on Edge

As each week passes, the pressure on Aranda is ratcheting up. The patience in Waco is wearing thin, and for good reason. Baylor has aspirations to be more than just a middling program. They want to compete for Big 12 titles and, ideally, carve out a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff picture. Right now, though, those dreams seem distant.

Questions around offensive strategy, execution, and quarterback trust are only intensifying. There’s a growing sense that the Bears are not only underperforming but also fundamentally failing to live up to their potential. If the offense doesn’t start firing soon, that pressure could turn from uncomfortable to untenable.

Signs of Hope: A Defense That’s Standing Tall

Yet, all is not lost for Dave Aranda. There’s a reason his seat isn’t yet scorching. The defense—his bread and butter—has shown signs of life. In that loss to Utah, it wasn’t the defense that let Baylor down; in fact, Aranda’s defensive play-calling helped keep the game within reach, especially in the second half. The unit’s resilience offers a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak landscape, suggesting that the core principles Aranda brought with him are still intact.

Moreover, there’s been some visible progress compared to last season, however incremental it might seem. And if there’s one thing that can buy a coach time, it’s evidence that things might be moving in the right direction, however slowly.

The Path Ahead: Aranda’s Defining Stretch

But make no mistake: the road ahead is fraught with peril for Dave Aranda. His seat is warming, and the thermostat is set by an offense that needs to find its footing—fast. The upcoming game against Air Force and the slate of conference matchups to follow will be telling. If Baylor can’t find a way to generate offense and secure wins against quality opponents, no amount of defensive savvy will be able to save Aranda’s job.

In this league, moral victories and solid defensive stands aren’t enough. Wins are the currency that matters. And unless Aranda can find a way to cash in on the offensive side of the ball, his defensive acumen may not be enough to keep him in Waco. For now, the seat is warming, but the flame is close to catching.

4. Scott Satterfield – Cincinnati

The Clock is Ticking on Game Management Woes

Scott Satterfield’s tenure at Cincinnati has hit a critical juncture early in the season. After a gut-wrenching 28-27 loss to Pitt in Week 2—a game where the Bearcats squandered a commanding 21-point lead—Satterfield’s ability to lead this program is facing intense scrutiny. In the competitive landscape of the Big 12, there’s little room for repeated mistakes, and Satterfield’s track record is quickly becoming more of a liability than an asset.

The Core Problem: A History of Poor Game Management

The narrative around Satterfield is getting more damning by the week. His teams have developed a bad habit of faltering when the stakes are highest. A 4-15 record in one-score games since 2019, excluding the 2018 season at Louisville, tells the story of a coach who struggles to close the deal. Whether it’s blowing leads, like the recent meltdown against Pitt, or questionable play-calling and decision-making in high-pressure moments, Satterfield seems to find new ways to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

Cincinnati fans are already well-acquainted with the frustrations of last season, and the collapse against Pitt feels like an unwelcome déjà vu. The lack of composure and direction in critical situations is no longer just a trend; it’s a defining characteristic. And in the cutthroat environment of the Big 12, that’s not a reputation that leads to job security.

The Heat is On: Growing Discontent Among Fans and Boosters

The echoes of last season’s struggles are resonating loudly, and the fanbase is growing restless. What’s been most concerning isn’t just the losses, but the way they’ve come about. For a program transitioning into the Big 12, these kinds of collapses don’t just hurt the win-loss record; they erode trust in the direction of the team. Questions are mounting about Satterfield’s offensive strategy and his use of personnel. Are the Bearcats being put in the best position to succeed? So far, the results suggest otherwise.

And as frustration builds, so does the pressure. Cincinnati isn’t a program where mediocrity will be tolerated, especially with the increased visibility and expectations that come with Big 12 membership. The fanbase wants to see growth, adaptability, and most importantly, results. Anything short of that, and the calls for change will only grow louder.

Glimmers of Hope: Improvement Amidst the Chaos

Despite the growing heat on Satterfield, there are a few reasons for cautious optimism. The offense, while inconsistent, has shown flashes of potential improvement compared to last season. There have been standout individual performances, like Corey Kiner’s powerful rushing and Brendan Sorsby’s capable passing, that suggest the raw materials are there to build something more competitive.

Moreover, it’s still early in the season. There’s time to turn things around and prove that the collapse against Pitt was more an aberration than the norm. However, the window for proving that is narrowing rapidly.

The Weeks Ahead: A Make-or-Break Stretch for Satterfield

As it stands, Scott Satterfield’s seat is heating up, and fast. The upcoming game against Miami (OH) represents a crucial opportunity to regain some stability and momentum. More importantly, as Cincinnati heads into conference play, Satterfield must show he can manage games better and make the kinds of decisions that lead to wins, not heartbreaks.

If the Bearcats continue to stumble in winnable situations, Satterfield’s job security will be in serious jeopardy by mid-season. The path to redemption is clear but treacherous: demonstrate better game management, secure key victories, and give the fanbase a reason to believe that brighter days are ahead. If he fails to do so, Cincinnati may be looking for a new head coach sooner rather than later.

5. Joe Morehead – Akron

A Clock Ticking Louder in the MAC

Joe Moorhead’s journey at Akron has been anything but smooth, and after a brutal 52-6 loss to #2 Ohio State in the season opener, the path forward looks no easier. With just four wins in his first two years and an admission from Moorhead himself that Akron is “the worst football program in Division I football,” the reality is stark: this program is struggling to find any semblance of upward momentum.

The Heart of the Problem: A Program Stuck in Neutral

Three years into his tenure, Moorhead is facing the same criticisms that have haunted him from the start. Akron has lost ten one-score games in the past two seasons, including four in overtime—games that, with better execution or strategy, could have turned the tide for a beleaguered program. Instead, they stand as missed opportunities that underscore a worrying inability to finish strong.

There’s a sense that Akron’s struggles are not just tactical but psychological; the losing culture has dug deep roots, and Moorhead’s efforts to shift the belief system among his players haven’t yet borne fruit. When a head coach describes his own team in such dire terms, it raises the question: has Moorhead already lost faith in his ability to turn things around?

The Heat is Rising: A MAC Crisis in the Making

For a program like Akron, where the competitive bar in the MAC is relatively low, continued poor performance only serves to amplify the pressure on Moorhead. The inability to close out close games and break free from the cycle of losing has left fans and boosters increasingly restless. The whispers of frustration are growing louder with each passing week.

The expectation when Moorhead arrived was that he would leverage his reputation as one of the top offensive minds in college football to spark a turnaround. Instead, the Zips remain mired in mediocrity, with little sign that the corner is about to be turned.

A Glimmer of Hope: Mitigating Circumstances and Marginal Gains

However, Moorhead’s seat isn’t yet burning for a few reasons. His standing as a respected offensive strategist still carries weight, and there have been some areas of improvement, particularly in special teams play. Plus, it’s important to remember that the early part of Akron’s schedule hasn’t been forgiving—facing powerhouses like Ohio State and Rutgers makes any immediate turnaround hard to judge.

But Akron’s true test lies ahead in its MAC schedule. These are the games that Moorhead was brought in to win, and they represent his last, best hope to show significant progress.

The Path Ahead: A Make-or-Break Moment for Moorhead

As the MAC slate looms, Joe Moorhead finds himself at a crossroads. His seat is warming, and the thermostat is directly tied to Akron’s performance in winnable conference games. If the Zips can’t find a way to string together some victories and show tangible improvement, Moorhead may find himself looking for a way out—potentially back to the role of offensive coordinator, where his reputation still holds value.

For now, the heat is on but not yet scorching. However, if Akron continues on its current trajectory, Moorhead’s days in the lead chair could be numbered. The rest of this season is crucial, and it’s make-or-break time for the man tasked with fixing a program that’s been broken for far too long.

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Swamp of Despair Puts Napier in the Top Hot Seat

Mark Haines on September 3, 2024

1. Billy Napier, Florida

Let’s dive into the swampy mess that is the Florida Gators football program under Billy Napier. I’m not one to sugarcoat things, so let’s call it like it is: Napier is knee-deep in the muck, and the hot seat is scorching his backside.

The 41-17 beatdown by Miami? Embarrassing. Napier himself said it. And after two-plus seasons, a dismal 11-15 record ain’t cutting it in Gainesville. The lack of progress is glaring, fans are bailing on games early, and even the legendary Steve Spurrier is publicly questioning Napier’s approach.

Let’s face it, Year 3 is judgment time for any coach, and Napier is failing the test. The Gators look lost, undisciplined, and, frankly, uninspired. The offense is sputtering, the defense is porous, and the special teams are, well, “special” in all the wrong ways.

Napier has a hefty buyout, and Florida’s leadership might be hesitant to pull the trigger. But when the program’s ambassador calls for change and fans threaten to stay home, the pressure is mounting.

Napier’s got a tough road ahead. The schedule doesn’t get any easier, and the vultures are circling. He needs to pull a rabbit out of his hat and fast. Otherwise, his tenure in the Swamp might be coming to an unceremonious end.

Can Napier turn this ship around? It’s possible, but the odds are stacked against him. The Gators need a spark, a jolt of energy, and a whole lot of wins. If Napier can’t deliver, well, it might be time for Florida to start looking for a new captain to navigate these treacherous waters.

The clock is ticking, Billy. The hot seat is burning. It’s time to show us what you’re made of.

2. Shane Beamer, South Carolina

The air in Columbia crackles with nervous energy, a far cry from the jubilant anticipation that typically heralds a new season. South Carolina fans are on edge. The wounds of the 2023 season—a dismal 3-5 in the SEC, a humbling 5-7 overall, and the bitter sting of missing a bowl game—still fester. The echoes of boos raining down on their team in the season opener against Old Dominion haunt their collective memory. Social media, a relentless digital amphitheater, reverberates with their discontent.

Shane Beamer, the man at the helm, feels the weight of their expectations bearing down on him. He occupies the precarious #2 spot on the Coaches Hot Seat List, a stark reminder that the honeymoon phase is over. Two promising seasons to start his tenure bought him goodwill, but last year’s regression has everyone questioning his leadership. The brutal reality of college football is that winning isn’t enough in the SEC; you must consistently compete at the highest level. Right now, South Carolina is falling short.

The pressure is immense. Beamer must orchestrate a dramatic turnaround, and he must do it now. He must prove that 2023 was an anomaly, not a harbinger of decline. He must demonstrate his ability to recruit, develop, and win in the most unforgiving conference in college football. He must guide the Gamecocks back to a bowl game and achieve this feat this year.

The clock is ticking. The fans, the boosters, the administration—all eyes are on him. Every game, every play, every decision will be dissected and analyzed. Beamer’s future at South Carolina hangs precariously in the balance.

Yet, amidst the storm clouds, a glimmer of hope remains. Beamer has tasted victory; he has laid a foundation. Now, he must build upon it. He must prove that he is not simply a capable coach but the visionary leader this program needs to reclaim its former glory. He must silence the doubters and etch his name in South Carolina football lore.

The 2024 season is a crucible. It is a chance for redemption, to defy expectations, and to script a new chapter in the Gamecocks’ storied history. The question hangs heavy in the air: Can Shane Beamer rise to the occasion? Can he navigate the treacherous waters of the SEC and lead his team back to the promised land?

The stage is set. The stakes are high. The spotlight is on. It’s time for Shane Beamer to show the world what he’s made of.

3. Dave Aranda, Baylor

Dave Aranda’s the defensive mastermind who brought Baylor a surprise Big 12 title in 2021. But last year’s offensive struggles were like watching paint dry. With the Big 12 expanding and the competition fiercer, Aranda’s feeling the heat.

He’s not one to panic, though. Aranda’s a thinker, a “Professor,” as they call him, constantly analyzing, always strategizing. This season, he’s taking back the reins of the defense, calling the plays himself, just like he did during LSU’s national championship run. It’s a bold move, a statement that he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.

On offense, there’s a new sheriff in town: Jake Spavital. He’s bringing an up-tempo scheme and has some new weapons to play with, including transfer QB Dequan Finn and speedy receiver Ashtyn Hawkins. The offensive line has been bolstered with transfers, too, so there’s hope for a more balanced attack.

But let’s be honest. Aranda’s bread and butter is defense. He’s built a reputation for shutting down opponents, and Baylor needs to get back to that. If the defense can regain its swagger and the offense can find some rhythm, the Bears could surprise some folks.

Aranda is a coach who’s always stayed true to himself, even as the college football landscape has shifted dramatically. He’s embraced NIL and the transfer portal but has returned to his roots as a defensive play-caller. It’s a gamble, but it could pay off big time.

The pressure’s on in Waco, but Aranda’s not backing down. He’s got a plan, he’s got the experience, and he’s got the passion. The Bears might be underdogs this year but don’t count them out. Aranda’s got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he’s ready to prove that he’s still one of the best in the business.

4. Sam Pittman, Arkansas

Sam Pittman’s story at Arkansas combines heartwarming nostalgia and high-stakes pressure. He’s like the beloved hometown hero who returned to coach his alma mater, bringing back some of that good ol’ fashioned Razorback pride. But sentimentality only gets you so far in the cutthroat world of SEC football.

Pittman’s 21-17 record is respectable, but it’s not enough to silence the critics in the SEC. Losses to rivals like LSU and Texas A&M sting deep, and the departure of star quarterback KJ Jefferson leaves a gaping hole in the offense. The pressure is on Pittman to prove he can develop a new quarterback and keep the Razorbacks’ momentum rolling, which is a daunting task he’s fully aware of.

In a bold move that raised eyebrows across college football, Pittman brought back Bobby Petrino as offensive coordinator. It’s a high-risk, high-reward gamble that has the entire football community on edge. Petrino’s a brilliant offensive mind, but his past transgressions at Arkansas are still fresh in many people’s minds. Pittman’s betting that Petrino’s expertise can revitalize the offense and propel the Razorbacks to new heights.

The Hogs faithful are hungry for success, and Pittman knows it. He’s not afraid of the hot seat and will make tough decisions to win. As he puts it, “I want to win. I don’t care about all the rest of it.”

Pittman has the support of his athletic director, a talented roster, and a new offensive coordinator with a point to prove. The 2024 season will be a defining one for Pittman and the Razorbacks. It’s a season filled with anticipation and excitement, as it will determine the team’s future. Will they rise to the occasion and make a statement in the SEC? Or will the pressure prove too much, leading to another chapter of disappointment in Fayetteville?

The stage is set, the players are ready, and the drama unfolds. Stay tuned to Coaches Hot Seat as we track Sam Pittman’s high-stakes gamble in the heart of SEC country.

5. Brent Pry, Virginia Tech

Saturday’s loss by Virginia Tech to Vanderbilt wasn’t just a loss; it was a full-blown coaching meltdown, a symphony of errors and indiscipline that has left Virginia Tech reeling and Brent Pry teetering on the edge of oblivion. The Hokies, favored by 13.5 points, were not just beaten; they were embarrassed, outplayed, and outcoached in their own house.

But the final score was merely a symptom of a deeper malaise. The two players sharing the same jersey number on the field wasn’t just a blunder; it was a glaring indictment of a program in disarray, a coaching staff asleep at the wheel. It’s the kind of mistake that makes you question the competence of everyone involved.

Then there’s the childish name-calling, the “poor man’s Trace McSorley” taunt hurled at Vanderbilt’s quarterback. It’s not just disrespectful; it’s a sign of a team that’s lost its way, a group of players who think they’re better than they are. It’s the kind of arrogance that fuels the underdog and comes back to bite you in the ass.

And bite it did. Vanderbilt, motivated and focused, exposed every crack in Virginia Tech’s foundation. They exploited the lack of discipline, the lack of preparation, and the lack of leadership. They made Pry’s Hokies look like a JV squad, a team devoid of identity and purpose.

This isn’t a one-off; it’s a pattern. Pry’s tenure at Virginia Tech has been a slow-motion train wreck, a series of missed opportunities and unfulfilled promises. The same issues keep cropping up: undisciplined players, lackluster preparation, and an inability to maximize the talent on the roster.

The fans are fed up. The alumni are embarrassed. The media is sharpening its knives. Pry’s seat isn’t just hot; it’s melting. He’s lost the locker room, he’s lost the fanbase, and he’s lost the benefit of the doubt.

The Hokies deserve better. They deserve a coach who can instill discipline, inspire confidence, and lead them to greatness. Right now, Brent Pry is the antithesis of that. He’s the captain of a sinking ship, and unless he can plug the leaks and change course, he’ll be remembered not as the savior of Virginia Tech football, but as the one who ran it aground.

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