Georgia Tech is on the verge of something special.
After back-to-back 7-6 seasons, the Yellow Jackets are positioned for what could be their most successful campaign in years—and I’m going to tell you exactly why. Head coach Brent Key has methodically rebuilt this program piece by piece, and 2025 is when all these pieces finally come together.
Here’s why Georgia Tech is poised to make serious noise in college football this year:
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Georgia Tech Is Loaded With Returning Talent
Georgia Tech ranks 26th nationally and 3rd in the ACC in returning production.
This isn’t just some random statistic—it’s the foundation of championship teams. When you break down the numbers, the Yellow Jackets are bringing back:
64% of their offensive production
65% of their defensive production
Their star quarterback, Haynes King (72.9% completion rate)
Leading rusher Jamal Haynes (944 yards, 9 TDs)
Top receiver Malik Rutherford (62 catches, 702 yards)
All-ACC guard Keylan Rutledge
Most college football teams would kill for this level of continuity. In the transfer portal era, keeping this much talent together is practically a superpower.
“Georgia Tech boasts one of the better quarterback situations in the ACC, with both Haynes King and Aaron Philo returning.”
This quarterback stability—rare in today’s college football landscape—gives the Yellow Jackets a massive advantage heading into 2025.
Let’s Talk About 2024: The Foundation Is Already Built
Last season showed us flashes of greatness that can’t be ignored.
The Yellow Jackets didn’t just compile seven wins—they made statements. They upset Florida State to open the season. They handed Miami its first loss. They pushed Georgia to eight overtimes in one of the most thrilling games of the year.
But what truly matters is how they did it:
They balanced their attack (237.5 passing yards, 187 rushing yards per game)
They developed an identity under offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner
They showed resilience against one of the nation’s toughest schedules
They competed in every game they played
The one glaring weakness? A pass rush that generated just 18 sacks all season (last in the ACC).
The 2025 Schedule: A Path To The ACC Championship
For the first time in years, Georgia Tech has a manageable schedule.
This isn’t just good luck—it’s an opportunity to make a genuine conference title run. The Yellow Jackets could realistically be favored in at least eight games this season, with their most challenging tests being:
Season opener at Colorado (a tricky road environment but a winnable game)
Early-season clash with ACC powerhouse Clemson
Potential trap game at Duke in mid-October
Traditional season-ending rivalry against Georgia
The balanced schedule provides a realistic pathway to nine or even ten wins if things break right.
The X-Factor: New Defensive Coordinator Blake Gideon
Defense wins championships, and Georgia Tech just upgraded.
The hiring of Blake Gideon from Texas represents a critical addition to the coaching staff. While there will be a transition period, Gideon brings SEC-level experience and a reputation for developing defensive backs—an area where Georgia Tech desperately needs improvement after ranking 117th in EPA per dropback last season.
His primary challenge? Fix that anemic pass rush that generated just 18 sacks in 2024.
The Bottom Line: This Is The Year
Georgia Tech will be in the ACC Championship Game in 2025.
This isn’t just a bold prediction—it’s the logical conclusion when you analyze all the evidence. With a third year in Faulkner’s offensive system, a favorable schedule, and returning production that ranks among the nation’s best, the Yellow Jackets have all the ingredients for a special season.
The goals should be clear:
Win 9+ games for the first time since 2014
Compete for an ACC Championship
Secure a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff
After back-to-back 7-6 campaigns, Georgia Tech fans have been patient. That patience is about to be rewarded in a big way.
The Yellow Jackets aren’t just going to be better in 2025—they will be legitimately good.
Atlanta, GA / USA – October 30 2020: Team Entrance for the Georgia Tech Football Facility at Bobby Dodd Stadium
Florida State Football stands at its most critical crossroads in recent memory.
What happened to the Seminoles might be the most dramatic year-to-year collapse in college football history—going from ACC Champions with a 13-1 record to a disastrous 2-10 campaign that left head coach Mike Norvell squarely on the hot seat despite his massive contract.
But the real story isn’t just about wins and losses. It’s about something far more fundamental to college football: culture.
The Collapse: What Actually Happened in 2024?
The 2024 season was nothing short of a nightmare for Florida State Football fans.
They watched helplessly as their once-dominant Florida State Football team plummeted from College Football Playoff contender to becoming the laughingstock of the ACC, and several alarming factors contributed to this historic fall:
Mass Exodus of Talent: FSU lost 10 of its 13 most valuable players from the 2023 squad, including star quarterback Jordan Travis, and key receivers Johnny Wilson and Keon Coleman
Quarterback Carousel: The Seminoles cycled through three different quarterbacks (D.J. Uiagalelei, Brock Glenn, and Luke Kromenhoek), none of whom could effectively lead the offense
Statistical Free Fall: The offense dropped from 13th nationally in scoring (35.5 PPG) to 124th (15.3 PPG), while the defense went from elite to mediocre
Running Game Collapse: FSU’s rushing attack averaged a pathetic 2.9 yards per carry and just 89.9 yards per game, down dramatically from 4.5 YPC and 150.2 YPG in 2023
But these symptoms masked a deeper, more fundamental issue.
The Culture Crisis: Norvell’s Catastrophic Failure
At the heart of Florida State’s stunning collapse lies something that transcends X’s and O’s, roster management, or recruiting rankings.
Mike Norvell committed perhaps the most significant coaching sin possible in college football: he failed to cultivate what it means to be a Seminole—making his 2024 performance arguably one of the worst coaching jobs in recent FBS history.
The Identity Crisis: Being a “Seminole” has historically carried deep meaning, representing not just wearing the uniform but embodying the traditions, pride, and connection to the university community
Transactional Approach: Norvell treated the roster as a collection of interchangeable parts rather than cultivating a cohesive team identity, undermining the very foundation of program success
Transfer Portal Trap: His heavy reliance on the transfer portal created a team of players with no institutional knowledge, limited understanding of the program’s traditions, and little emotional investment
Missing the “Why”: While Norvell acknowledged his team lacked “edge,” this diagnosis completely misses the point—the problem isn’t competitive intensity but a deeper disconnect from the purpose behind Florida State football
“The importance of team passion and school allegiance in college football cannot be understated. You are a ‘Seminole’ and a huge part of the university community. Norvell is ignoring these factors and is looking for an ‘edge’ — focusing on creating a sense of urgency.”
Players who understand they’re part of something larger than themselves—representing their university, alumni, and community—find motivation that transcends schemes or individual stats.
Norvell never established this fundamental truth.
Norvell’s failure to address these fundamental cultural issues resulted in one of the worst coaching performances in recent FBS history.
Norvell’s Response: Wholesale Changes (But Is It Enough?)
In 2025, Mike Norvell faced the most intense scrutiny of his career and coaching for his professional life. He has implemented dramatic changes across the program.
Coaching Staff Overhaul
Norvell has completely revamped his coaching staff with high-profile additions:
Former UCF head coach Gus Malzahn as offensive coordinator
Tony White from Nebraska as defensive coordinator
Several additional assistants from UCF and Nebraska with previous connections
This represents a significant shift from 2024.
Transfer Portal Revolution
The Seminoles have been among the most active teams in the transfer portal, bringing in 16 transfers that currently rank nationally as the No. 5 transfer class.
Most notably, FSU has added four potential starters on the offensive line, addressing their most glaring weakness in 2024.
But this approach raises a critical question: Is Norvell doubling down on the very strategy that contributed to the culture breakdown in the first place?
The Contract Situation: A Fascinating Financial Tangle
Despite the disastrous 2024 season, Norvell remains in place with one of college football’s most interesting contract situations.
Massive Buyout: Norvell’s contract runs through 2031 with a staggering $54.4 million buyout if terminated after the 2025 season
Financial Commitment: In an unusual move, Norvell is contributing $4.5 million of his 2025 salary to launch FSU’s Vision of Excellence fundraising campaign
Performance Incentives: His contract includes an annual $750,000 bonus starting in 2026 if FSU wins at least nine games, potentially allowing him to recoup the $4.5 million over time
This financial arrangement essentially buys Norvell additional time while demonstrating his commitment to the program’s future—but money alone can’t fix a broken culture.
The 2025 Outlook: Can a Cultural Revival Save Norvell’s Job?
The 2025 season will determine whether Mike Norvell deserves to continue leading Florida State football.
Early projections suggest a potential over/under win total of 7.5 games, representing significant improvement, but might not be enough to secure Norvell’s position fully.
Keys to Success
Several critical elements will determine if Florida State can bounce back in 2025:
Cultural Reconnection: Norvell must invest significant time in educating new transfers and freshmen about what it truly means to be a Seminole
Community Integration: Creating stronger bonds between players and the broader university community, including alumni, students, and fans
Leadership Development: Identifying and empowering team leaders who genuinely embody Florida State values to set the standard for newcomers
Quarterback Development: Boston College transfer Thomas Castellanos must thrive in Malzahn’s offensive system
Offensive Line Resurrection: The completely rebuilt offensive line must provide dramatically better protection and run-blocking
Schedule Challenges
Florida State’s 2025 schedule is challenging. It opens with a home game against Alabama and features challenging road games against Clemson, NC State, and Florida.
The Seminoles must navigate this schedule successfully to approach the 8-9 win mark that many believe Norvell needs to secure his future.
The Bottom Line: Hot Seat Temperature
Mike Norvell enters 2025 with his coaching career hanging in the balance.
While his substantial buyout provides some job security, another disastrous season like 2024 would likely force FSU’s hand despite the financial implications.
Most observers believe Norvell needs at least eight wins to start cooling his seat, while 9+ wins would substantially strengthen his position.
But wins alone won’t save him—he must demonstrate a fundamental understanding of what makes Florida State football unique:
A deep connection to the university’s traditions
Players who understand the privilege of representing the Seminole community
A team that plays with both technical excellence and passionate pride
The dramatic roster and coaching staff overhaul represents a high-risk, high-reward approach that will either accelerate FSU’s return to prominence or hasten Norvell’s departure.
For Florida State fans, 2025 will reveal whether Mike Norvell has finally realized that building a successful college football program requires more than just assembling talent—it requires building Seminoles.
One Last Thing…
Don’t miss another deep dive into college football’s most crucial storylines and program developments. Our team-by-team analysis gives you the insider perspective to understand where each program is headed in 2025 and beyond. Subscribe for free now to access our comprehensive breakdowns, exclusive hot seat rankings, and in-depth conference analysis delivered straight to your inbox. Join thousands of college football insiders who trust Coaches Hot Seat to keep them ahead of the game. Hit the link below to unlock all our premium content and never miss another update.
Duke football just shocked the college football world—and they’re not done yet.
The Foundation Is Already Built (And It’s Rock Solid)
What happens when you combine a defensive mastermind head coach with elite talent in the ACC?
In 2024, we found out:
A surprising 9-4 record (5-3 in conference play)
Signature wins over rivals North Carolina, NC State, and Florida State
A defense that ranked 2nd nationally in tackles for loss (8.9 per game)
An offense that produced 244.3 passing yards per game
A Gator Bowl appearance that put Duke back on the national radar
But 2024 was just the warm-up act. Coach Manny Diaz is building something sustainable in Durham.
The $8 Million Quarterback Gamble That Changes Everything
The Blue Devils made the biggest quarterback splash in program history this offseason.
Darian Mensah isn’t just another transfer portal addition—he’s a program-defining investment. The former Tulane star, who commanded a reported $8 million deal over two years, brings legitimate star power to Wallace Wade Stadium.
Threw for 2,723 yards with 22 TDs and just 6 INTs in 2024
Led Tulane to the AAC Championship Game
Ranked as the #1 player in ESPN’s transfer portal rankings
Possesses the arm talent to unlock Duke’s downfield passing attack
The Blue Devils are betting big that Mensah can elevate them from “surprise team” to legitimate ACC contender.
A Defense Built to Terrorize Quarterbacks
While the offense will feature new faces, Duke’s defensive identity remains intact—and that should terrify ACC offensive coordinators.
The Blue Devils defense returns several key playmakers:
All-American cornerback Chandler Rivers (allowed just ONE touchdown in his final seven games)
All-American safety Terry Moore (71 tackles, 3 INTs in 2024)
A front seven that generated 43 sacks last season
An aggressive scheme that produced 13 interceptions and 14 fumble recoveries
Add Dartmouth transfer Josiah Green (unanimous All-Ivy selection) and Penn graduate transfer Will Seiler to the mix, and Duke’s defense appears primed to maintain its disruptive reputation.
The Best Recruiting Class in Program History Just Arrived
Building sustained success requires elite recruiting—and Duke just secured their highest-rated class in years.
The 2025 incoming class features:
A #33-35 national ranking (depending on which service you trust)
4-star DE Bryce Davis (ranked as high as #63 nationally)
4-star LB Bradley Gompers (Pennsylvania’s top prospect)
WR Jamien Little (ESPN 300 selection)
27 total commitments (quantity AND quality)
This influx of young talent ensures Duke won’t be a one-year wonder. The talent pipeline is flowing.
Will The Transfer Portal Gamble Pay Off?
Duke’s roster transformation extends far beyond just Mensah.
The Blue Devils aggressively attacked the transfer portal to reload after key departures:
WR Cooper Barkate (Harvard): 63 catches, 1,084 yards, 11 TDs in 2024
WR Andrel Anthony Jr. (Oklahoma): Former Michigan standout adds big-play ability
OL Jack Purcell (Penn): Experienced tackle to protect Mensah’s blindside
DL Kendy Charles (Liberty): Immediate impact player on the defensive front
Transfer portal success will determine whether Duke builds on 2024 or takes a step back.
The Brutal Reality of the 2025 Schedule
The path to an ACC Championship won’t be easy.
Duke faces nine opponents who reached bowl games or the College Football Playoff in 2024. The Blue Devils’ Week 2 clash with Illinois will immediately reveal whether this team is for real.
Conference showdowns with Miami, Clemson, and Virginia Tech will test Duke’s ability to compete with the ACC’s elite programs. How Diaz’s squad performs in these measuring-stick games will define their season.
Can Duke Football Finally Sustain Success?
The most fascinating question surrounding the 2025 Blue Devils isn’t about talent—it’s about the program’s historical inability to build on success.
Duke has the pieces in place: an established coach, a star quarterback, a disruptive defense, and upgraded talent. The blueprint is there.
Now, they just need to execute it.
For a program that has spent decades as an afterthought, 2025 represents Duke’s chance to prove they belong among the ACC’s contenders—not just for one magical season, but for the long haul.
The Blue Devils aren’t just building a team. They’re building a program.
Finally…
Don’t miss another deep dive into college football’s most crucial storylines and program developments. Our team-by-team analysis gives you the insider perspective to understand where each program is headed in 2025 and beyond. Subscribe for free now to access our comprehensive breakdowns, exclusive hot seat rankings, and in-depth conference analysis delivered straight to your inbox. Join thousands of college football insiders who trust Coaches Hot Seat to keep them ahead of the game. Hit the link below to unlock all our premium content and never miss another update.
Want to know the exact moment Clemson football became college football’s most fascinating program heading into 2025?
It wasn’t winning the ACC Championship in 2024 or making another College Football Playoff appearance. It was when Dabo Swinney finally decided to evolve Clemson football.
The Transformation Nobody Saw Coming
For years, Clemson football built championship teams the old-school way:
Recruit elite high school talent
Develop them over time
Trust the process
Resist modern trends
Then everything changed.
The Portal Revolution That Shocked College Football
Here’s what makes Clemson football’s transfer portal strategy so brilliant – they’re not just adding players. They’re adding perfect pieces to an already-loaded roster:
Will Heldt (Purdue Edge Rusher):
56 tackles and 5 sacks in 2024
Two years of eligibility remaining
Immediate impact potential in Tom Allen’s defense
Perfect complement to T.J. Parker’s pass rush
Jeremiah Alexander (Alabama LB):
Former 5-star recruit
27 games of SEC experience
Elite athleticism and versatility
Fills a crucial defensive need
Tristan Smith (Southeast Missouri State WR):
934 receiving yards in 2024
Brings size to the receiver room
Ready-made replacement for graduating talent
Perfect fit for Riley’s offense
But Here’s What Everyone’s Missing About The Portal Strategy
Swinney isn’t abandoning his principles. He’s enhancing them.
The 2025 recruiting class proves it:
Elite High School Talent:
Amare Adams (5-star DL, ranked 7th nationally)
Gideon Davidson (4-star RB, 2,700 yards as junior)
The Tom Allen Effect: More Than Just A Coordinator Hire
When Clemson hired Tom Allen, they didn’t just get a defensive coordinator.
They got a complete defensive reinvention.
Here’s what makes Allen’s system unique:
Aggressive blitz packages
Multiple fronts that confuse offenses
Elite rush defense principles
Turnover-focused mentality
And here’s the talent he gets to work with:
Defensive Line:
Peter Woods (dominant interior force)
T.J. Parker (11 sacks in 2024)
Will Heldt (transfer portal addition)
Amare Adams (5-star freshman)
Linebackers:
Wade Woodaz (83 tackles, 10 TFL)
Barrett Carter (82 tackles, 11 TFL)
Jeremiah Alexander (Alabama transfer)
Sammy Brown (80 tackles as a freshman)
Secondary:
Khalil Barnes (4 interceptions)
Avieon Terrell (12 pass breakups)
R.J. Mickens (75 tackles)
Ashton Hampton (2 INTs, including pick-six)
The Offensive Evolution That Changes Everything
Want to know why Garrett Riley’s offense could explode in 2025?
It’s not just about the system anymore. It’s about mastery.
The Quarterback Evolution:
Cade Klubnik’s progression (3,639 yards, 36 TDs)
Three years in Riley’s system
Elite decision-making (only 6 INTs in 2024)
True Heisman potential
The Weapons:
Antonio Williams (904 yards, 11 TDs)
Bryant Wesco Jr. (708 yards, 5 TDs)
T.J. Moore (651 yards, 5 TDs)
Jake Briningstool (530 yards, 7 TDs)
Tristan Smith (transfer addition)
The System:
Power Raid principles
Multiple formation looks
Tempo control
Perfect run-pass balance
Why The 2024 Stats Only Tell Half The Story
The numbers were impressive:
451.9 yards per game (11th nationally)
34.7 points per game
278.5 passing yards per game
173.4 rushing yards per game
But here’s what makes 2025 different:
Full system implementation
Experienced personnel at every position
Enhanced playbook options
A perfect balance of speed and power
The Schedule: A Path To The Playoff
The 2025 schedule isn’t just challenging. It’s an opportunity.
Key Games:
Season-defining road test at LSU
Critical ACC matchups
Rivalry showdown with South Carolina
Potential playoff implications every week
The Championship Formula
Here’s why 2025 could be extraordinary:
The Perfect Storm:
Elite talent at every position
Innovative coaching on both sides
Championship experience
Modern roster building
Traditional program values
The Evolution:
Swinney’s adapted philosophy
Riley’s offensive mastery
Allen’s defensive revolution
Portal-enhanced roster
Elite recruiting foundation
The Bottom Line
Most programs either stick to tradition or chase every trend.
Clemson’s done something different.
They’ve taken everything that made them great:
Championship culture
Elite development
Winning tradition
Strong leadership
And added everything they needed:
Modern roster building
Innovative schemes
Aggressive defense
Explosive offense
That’s why 2025 isn’t just another season. It’s the year everything comes together. And the rest of college football should be terrified.
Finally…
Don’t miss another deep dive into college football’s most crucial storylines and program developments. Our team-by-team analysis gives you the insider perspective to understand where each program is headed in 2025 and beyond. Subscribe for free now to access our comprehensive breakdowns, exclusive hot seat rankings, and in-depth conference analysis delivered straight to your inbox. Join thousands of college football insiders who trust Coaches Hot Seat to keep them ahead of the game. Hit the link below to unlock all our premium content and never miss another update.
Every college football program has a breaking point.
That point for the California Golden Bears, aka Cal Football, is a .490 winning percentage—what industry insiders call the “Minimum Acceptable” (MA) winning percentage. This proprietary metric, developed by Coaches Hot Seat (the authority on coaching job security), is a data-driven warning system. The countdown typically begins when a coach’s record falls below this threshold.
Justin Wilcox’s winning percentage currently sits at .457.
The Numbers Tell A Story (And It’s Not A Happy One)
Let’s look at Cal’s progression over the past three seasons:
Cal Football’s future depends on addressing these challenges and improving their overall performance.
2022: 4-8 overall (2-7 in conference)
2023: 6-7 overall (4-5 in conference)
2024: 6-7 overall (2-6 in conference)
This isn’t just a pattern—it’s a problem. Wilcox’s tenure has been defined by incremental improvements followed by stagnation. The trajectory suggests a program stuck in neutral rather than building towards sustained success.
The $15 Million Question
Here’s what makes Cal’s situation particularly fascinating:
Wilcox is under contract through 2027
His 2025 compensation package totals $4.8 million
His buyout sits at approximately $15 million
His winning percentage remains below the critical .490 threshold
The Bears find themselves caught between the cost of change and the price of staying the same. Administrators loathe paying hefty buyouts, but they also know stagnation can cost even more—lost ticket sales, declining donations, and recruiting struggles. It’s a classic case of fiscal conservatism vs. competitive ambition.
But Here’s Where It Gets Interesting
Sensing the pressure, Wilcox has made his boldest move yet: a complete offensive overhaul.
The headline-grabber? Bryan Harsin as offensive coordinator. The subplot? Nick Rolovich as a senior offensive assistant.
Harsin, the former Auburn and Boise State head coach, brings a proven offensive system but arrives with baggage after a tumultuous SEC tenure. Rolovich getting a shot at a new coaching gig is fascinating—not just because of his high-risk, high-reward offensive mind but also because his tenure at Washington State ended over his refusal to comply with state vaccine mandates, not because of poor coaching.
Here’s what these moves tell us:
Wilcox finally acknowledges the need for wholesale offensive change.
The program is willing to take calculated risks on controversial but talented coaches.
The “defensive-minded” head coach is ceding offensive control.
The Numbers That Matter
Take a look at this offensive progression (or regression):
The decline in rushing yards from 2023 to 2024 is alarming. The offense isn’t just struggling—it’s losing its identity. For a team that relies on ball control and keeping its defense fresh, that’s a major red flag.
But here’s the silver lining—defensive improvement:
Wilcox’s defenses remain his calling card, and the strides made in 2024 suggest a unit capable of keeping Cal competitive. But in today’s college football landscape, defense alone doesn’t win championships—or job security.
The X-Factor Nobody’s Talking About
Rich Lyons.
Cal’s new chancellor isn’t just any administrator—he’s the first Cal undergraduate to hold the position in nearly a century. And he’s already talking about making football “self-supporting.”
This matters for three reasons:
It signals potential changes in program evaluation. Wilcox isn’t just competing against expectations; he’s competing against financial sustainability models.
It suggests new approaches to resource allocation. Don’t expect deep-pocketed institutional support if the football program can’t prove its worth.
It adds another layer of pressure to perform. Wilcox now has a boss who understands the program’s impact on the university and might not be as patient as previous chancellors.
Here’s What Nobody Wants To Say Out Loud
The 2025 season isn’t just another year for Cal football.
It’s a referendum.
On Wilcox.
On the program’s direction.
On whether Cal can compete in the modern college football landscape.
With realignment reshaping conferences, NIL deals changing recruiting, and fan engagement at a premium, the Golden Bears can’t afford to drift any further into mediocrity. A failure to break through in 2025 could push the program toward drastic change.
The Bottom Line
The tools for success are there:
New offensive philosophy
Improved defensive metrics
Fresh administrative perspective
Second year in the ACC (without having to face Miami, Clemson, or Florida State)
But here’s the truth nobody wants to acknowledge:
None of it matters if Cal can’t finally break through that .490 threshold.
Because in college football, you either evolve or dissolve.
And 2025 will tell us which path Cal has chosen.
Finally…
Don’t miss another deep dive into college football’s most crucial storylines and program developments. Our team-by-team analysis gives you the insider perspective to understand where each program is headed in 2025 and beyond. Subscribe for free now to access our comprehensive breakdowns, exclusive hot seat rankings, and in-depth conference analysis delivered straight to your inbox. Join thousands of college football insiders who trust Coaches Hot Seat to keep them ahead of the game. Hit the link below to unlock all our premium content and never miss another update.
Tommy Matheson: Ivy League-trained offensive line depth
Returning Defensive Talent:
Amari Jackson leads experienced secondary
Khari Johnson brings veteran leadership
Jordan Thomas brings NFL coaching experience to D-line
Special Teams Excellence:
16.4 yards per kick return
5.9 yards per punt return
Field position advantage in 9 of 13 games
The Bottom Line: What Vegas Isn’t Seeing
Teams that can run the ball (166.1 YPG), create turnovers (17 INTs), and dominate at home (5-2) don’t collapse to 3-9.
The real question isn’t whether BC will fall apart—it’s how high they can climb if they:
Develop quarterback consistency under O’Brien’s tutelage
Transform their road performance (1-4 to even 3-2 changes everything)
Maintain defensive playmaking despite key losses
Continue their rushing dominance with a new backfield
The spring practice period will reveal whether this roster reconstruction can maintain Boston College’s upward trajectory in an increasingly competitive ACC.
But one thing’s certain: The numbers show a program with a stronger foundation than the critics realize.
The O’Brien Factor: Beyond the Numbers
Here’s what makes Bill O’Brien’s situation at Boston College fascinating heading into 2025:
Most media outlets focus on the obvious:
His 7-6 record in year one
The Florida State upset
His NFL and Alabama pedigree
But they’re missing the deeper story of what makes a coach successful at BC.
Understanding BC’s Coaching Metrics
At Coaches Hot Seat, we measure coaching performance through two key metrics that you won’t find anywhere else:
MA (Minimum Acceptable Winning Percentage): The baseline winning percentage a coach needs to maintain job security
WPT (Winning Percentage Target): The winning percentage that would make the fanbase genuinely happy
In O’Brien’s case, there’s good news on both fronts:
He exceeded expectations in year one
The Syracuse rivalry win boosted his standing
His 7-6 record (.538) showed immediate improvement
The Contract Situation
While private schools like BC keep contract details close to the vest, here’s what we know about O’Brien’s deal:
Estimated $5 million annual base salary (his highest as head coach)
Contains a unique clause preventing NFL departures
Includes BC’s largest-ever assistant coach salary pool
Features performance incentives backloaded into later years
Why This Matters for 2025
O’Brien’s position heading into 2025 is stronger than most realize:
His seat is cool after beating year one expectations
The Syracuse rivalry win provides breathing room
He hasn’t yet faced other major rivals (Notre Dame, UMass, Holy Cross)
The contract structure suggests BC and O’Brien see this as a long-term relationship
But here’s what makes 2025 crucial: O’Brien must prove year one wasn’t a fluke while managing BC’s most significant roster turnover in years.
The combination of contractual stability and early success gives O’Brien something rare in college football: time to build his program the right way. Whether he can capitalize on that opportunity will define BC’s trajectory for years.
Finally…
Don’t miss another deep dive into college football’s most crucial storylines and program developments. Our team-by-team analysis gives you the insider perspective to understand where each program is headed in 2025 and beyond. Subscribe for free now to access our comprehensive breakdowns, exclusive hot seat rankings, and in-depth conference analysis delivered straight to your inbox. Join thousands of college football insiders who trust Coaches Hot Seat to keep them ahead of the game. Hit the link below to unlock all our premium content and never miss another update.
The Buckeyes’ 13-2 season demonstrates how, when properly deployed, elite talent can overcome almost any obstacle.
An Aerial Assault That Commands Respect
Will Howard transformed Ohio State’s passing game into one of college football’s most lethal weapons.
The numbers tell the story of aerial dominance:
265.1 passing yards per game
71% completion rate
35 passing touchdowns
Two 900+ yard receivers (Smith: 1,227, Egbuka: 947)
14 touchdowns from Smith alone
10 scores from Egbuka
This passing attack kept defensive coordinators awake at night.
Ground Game: The Perfect Complement
While the passing game grabbed headlines, Ohio State’s rushing attack quietly devastated opponents.
The two-headed monster in the backfield produced consistently:
TreVeyon Henderson: 967 yards at 7.3 yards per carry
Quinshon Judkins: 960 yards at 5.2 yards per carry
Combined for 22 rushing touchdowns
Team average of 163.2 rushing yards per game
The perfect balance to keep defenses honest
Exceptional ability to close out games
This rushing attack turned good drives into great ones.
A Defense Built on Disruption
Ohio State’s defense didn’t just stop opponents – it broke their will to compete.
The defensive dominance showed in multiple ways:
Only 89.9 rushing yards allowed per game
Held runners to 2.7 yards per carry
Generated 51 sacks (led by J.T. Tuimoloau’s 11.5)
Created 111 tackles for loss
Limited opponents to 12 rushing touchdowns all season
Consistently dominated the line of scrimmage
This unit transformed pressure into production.
The Day Factor: Strategic Evolution
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day reacts to a replay during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Michigan Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ryan Day’s approach to game management reveals a coach willing to adapt and innovate.
His impact manifested in several key areas:
Increased deep passing plays to 15% in playoffs
Implemented the crucial “middle eight” minutes strategy
Moved offensive coordinator to the press box
Created specific roles for key transfers
Developed new film study protocols
Built a “no bad days” culture
Results proved the effectiveness of these changes.
Playoff Performance That Demanded Attention
Ohio State’s postseason run showcased their ability to elevate their game when it mattered most.
Critical adjustments defined their playoff success:
Increased vertical passing attack
Strategic player rotation to maintain freshness
Enhanced coordinator collaboration
Systematic in-game adjustments
Improved third-down conversion rate
Superior momentum management
Each game revealed new depths to their capabilities.
Areas of Concern
Even championship contenders have their vulnerabilities.
Nervous young Latin man using TV remote control on home couch, feeling annoyed, angry, concerned, watching football match, show, getting problems with broadcasting
Key weaknesses that need addressing:
Red zone efficiency (73.3% field goal conversion)
Pass protection issues, especially after key injuries
Notre Dame’s Path to the National Championship Game: A 2024 Season Analysis
Notre Dame’s remarkable 14-1 season proves that championship-caliber teams are built on resilience, not perfection.
The Numbers That Define Greatness
One shocking early-season loss to Northern Illinois sparked a historic 13-game winning streak that would carry the Fighting Irish to the national championship game.
The season’s defining statistics tell the story:
405.1 yards of total offense per game
37.0 points scored per game
31 forced turnovers (led FBS)
14.3 points allowed per game (2nd in FBS)
5 wins over ranked opponents
13 consecutive victories
These numbers only scratch the surface of Notre Dame’s dominance.
A Ground Game That Wouldn’t Be Stopped
The Irish rushing attack terrorized defenses with a three-headed monster that few teams could contain.
Consider the devastating ground assault:
Jeremiyah Love: Exploded for 1,122 yards at 7.1 yards per carry, punching in 17 touchdowns
Jadarian Price: Added 733 yards at 6.3 yards per carry with 7 scores
Riley Leonard: The dual-threat QB contributed 866 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns
This relentless ground game opened up opportunities through the air.
Surgical Precision in the Passing Game
While not prolific in volume, Notre Dame’s aerial attack struck with remarkable efficiency.
The passing game’s success came from precision and balance:
Riley Leonard completed 66.4% of his passes for 2,606 yards and 19 TDs
Three receivers topped 350 yards: Collins (458), Greathouse (464), and Evans (369)
Only 8 interceptions thrown in 413 attempts
Steve Angeli provided reliable backup play with 3 TDs and zero turnovers
This efficiency compensated for a relative lack of explosive plays.
A Defense That Suffocated Dreams
Notre Dame’s defense didn’t just stop opponents – it broke their will to compete.
The defensive dominance manifested in multiple ways:
Allowed only 165.3 passing yards per game (2nd nationally)
Forced 31 turnovers to lead FBS
Held opponents to 3.7 yards per carry
Permitted just 14 rushing touchdowns in 15 games
Limited quarterbacks to a 50.7% completion rate
Xavier Watts led this defensive masterpiece with 6 interceptions.
The Freeman Factor: Coaching Excellence
Marcus Freeman’s strategic brilliance transformed Notre Dame from talented to elite.
His impact showed in several key areas:
Aggressive defensive schemes that created havoc
A balanced offensive approach that kept defenses guessing
Superior player development, especially in the secondary
Clutch game management in critical moments
Exceptional ability to rally the team after setbacks
The results speak for themselves.
Season-Defining Victories
Five games shaped Notre Dame’s championship run.
These pivotal moments revealed the team’s character:
Opening statement win at Texas A&M (23-13)
Bounce-back victory over #15 Louisville (31-24)
Dominant win over rival USC (49-35)
Sugar Bowl triumph over #2 Georgia (23-10)
Orange Bowl Classic against #5 Penn State (27-24)
Each victory added another chapter to this historic season.
Room for Growth
Even championship contenders have areas for improvement.
The key weaknesses to address:
Limited explosive plays in the passing game (80th in 10+ yard passes)
Offensive line consistency (38 sacks allowed)
Field goal reliability (57.7% success rate)
Depth concerns at key positions
Red zone efficiency could improve
These shortcomings provide clear opportunities for Ohio State during the National Championship game.
The Path Forward
Notre Dame’s 2024 season has set a new standard for excellence in South Bend.
Consider what this means for the program:
Established themselves as legitimate title contenders
Developed a championship-caliber defense
Built a potent, identity-driven offense
Created a culture of resilience
Positioned themselves for sustained success
The foundation is laid for Notre Dame to remain among college football’s elite.
One question remains: Can the Fighting Irish take the final step and claim their first national championship of the playoff era?
In two years, college football’s talent market transformed from an orderly command economy into a chaotic free market that would make cryptocurrency traders blush. The New Economics of College Football: Understanding the Transfer Portal Panic examines how over 750 players entering the transfer portal this month isn’t evidence of a broken system – it’s proof of a market finally finding its equilibrium. What looks like chaos to anxious fans refreshing their Twitter feeds is the messy emergence of college football’s first true labor market, complete with hidden negotiations, market-making general managers earning NFL-style salaries, and the type of resource allocation decisions that would make a hedge fund manager sweat. The panic isn’t about dysfunction – it’s about price discovery. And in this new world of college football economics, the only thing more expensive than talent is inexperience in managing it.
Detroit, MI – USA – 10-21-2024: A Wilson football from above on a pile of money
On a crisp December morning, as college football fans refreshed their Twitter feeds with increasing anxiety, Brandon Huffman sat in a Nashville office explaining how the sport they love had fundamentally changed. The 24/7 Sports national recruiting editor wasn’t talking about offensive schemes or defensive alignments – he was describing market dynamics, negotiation strategies, and the emergence of a new power broker in college football: the general manager.
“You’re seeing schools play better defense in terms of keeping the guys that they really want,” Huffman explained, choosing his words carefully. “But you’re also seeing schools playing offense too.” He wasn’t talking about X’s and O’s. He was talking about money.
Welcome to college football’s new reality: over 750 players have entered the transfer portal this year alone. The panic among fan bases is palpable but misplaced. What looks like chaos from the outside is the messy emergence of a more structured market that increasingly mirrors the NFL’s free agency system, just without the benefit of its carefully regulated calendar and certified agent requirements.
The Hidden Market
What fans don’t see – and what’s driving much of their anxiety – is that most of these transfers aren’t surprises to the coaches and administrators involved. “Players’ handlers have been marketing these guys to schools for weeks,” one Power Five administrator admitted. The public announcements that send fans into a frenzy are often merely the formal acknowledgment of deals that have been in quiet negotiation for months.
This hidden market has created a new role in college football: the general manager. Stanford made waves by appointing Andrew Luck to this position, but they’re hardly alone. These GMs are being paid coordinator-level salaries ($500,000+) to manage what has essentially become an NFL-style front office. They’re not just evaluating talent – they’re managing salary caps before they officially exist.
The Price of Talent
The numbers are striking. Elite high school quarterbacks can command seven-figure deals before taking a single collegiate snap. However, the market is increasingly favoring proven production over potential. A quarterback who’s shown success at a lower level (FCS or Group of Five) can often command more than a highly-touted high school prospect who’s spent two years on the bench at a blue-blood program.
“If you’re smart and you play the long game, you might get that back-end deal,” Huffman noted. “But that would mean you’d have to wait three years to get that back-end deal. Most guys are going to jump at the front-end money.”
The Fan Fallacy
When a player enters the portal, fan bases blame the coaching staff. While this instinct is natural, it misunderstands the new economics of college football. Sometimes, a player’s departure isn’t about coaching failure—it’s about resource allocation.
Consider the case of a starting left tackle entering the portal. Fans see a failure to retain talent. The GM sees a financial decision: Is it better to pay the experienced tackle $750,000 or redistribute that money to lock down the promising quarterback and find a cheaper replacement through the portal?
The Development Dilemma
This new market creates interesting incentives around player development. The immediate availability of proven transfers challenges the traditional model of patiently developing talent over several years. Why spend three years developing a backup quarterback when you can acquire one who has already proven themselves at a lower level?
But this shift comes with risks. The constant churn of transfers can disrupt team chemistry and system familiarity. Players jumping from system to system may stunt their development while chasing larger contracts.
The Negotiation Gap
Not every program has embraced the GM model, creating a fascinating dichotomy in handling transfer negotiations. Head coaches often play dual roles at programs without a dedicated GM: talent evaluator and chief negotiator. It’s a precarious position that can create several problems.
First, there’s the time constraint. Head coaches are already among the busiest people in athletics, managing current players, game planning, and traditional recruiting. Adding complex financial negotiations to their plate stretches them even thinner. “When the head coach is your primary negotiator, you’re telling them to be Nick Saban and Jerry Jones simultaneously,” one Power Five assistant noted. “Something’s got to give.”
More importantly, it creates relationship complications. When a head coach directly negotiates compensation with players or their representatives, it fundamentally changes the coach-player dynamic. A coach who has to tell a player they’re not worth their asking price on Tuesday still needs to motivate that player on Saturday. It’s a potentially toxic dynamic that the GM model aims explicitly to avoid.
There’s also the expertise factor. Most head coaches didn’t rise through the ranks by being skilled financial negotiators. They’re football minds, not market makers. When negotiating against professional agents or marketing representatives, they often play an away game without a playbook.
Some programs have tried to bridge this gap by empowering recruiting coordinators or player personnel directors to handle negotiations. However, without a GM’s formal authority and budget control, these stopgap solutions often create more confusion than clarity in the negotiation process.
The Future Market
Revenue sharing is coming to college football, with estimates suggesting teams will have around $20 million to distribute among players. Many believe this will calm the current chaos by standardizing payment structures. The reality is likely more complex.
“The rich will still get richer,” Huffman predicted, “because the collectives are still going to be involved.” Revenue sharing won’t replace NIL deals – it will layer on top of them, creating an even more complex market for GMs to navigate.
Successful programs will develop clear strategies for this new market. Some will focus on high school recruitment and development, accepting that they’ll lose some players to transfer but betting on their ability to develop new talent. Others will embrace the portal, treating it as their primary talent pipeline. Most will likely land somewhere in between, but all must be more transparent with their players about their market value and team-building strategy.
The transfer portal isn’t chaos – it’s a market finding equilibrium. The panic it creates comes not from its dysfunction but from our unfamiliarity with its new rules. For fans, the best advice might be the simplest: calm down, let it play out, and trust that this year’s “crisis” is just next year’s normal.
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