With the 2024 season around the corner, here is an updated ranking of SEC head coaches:
1. Kirby Smart, Georgia
With Nick Saban gone there really is no question here. He’s not only tops in the SEC but also in the country.
2. Kalen DeBoer, Alabama
This was a tough choice at No. 2 because there is no way DeBoer can live up to Saban and the guy behind him has done more, but his record is too outstanding to overlook.
3. Brian Kelly, LSU
BK did some great things with Notre Dame and he’s been solid at LSU but expectations are as high as they’ve ever been for him.
4. Steve Sarkisian, Texas
One good year and Sark is this high? I just think he has Texas ready for a nice run of playoff appearances.
5. Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss
Kiffin hasn’t shown he can win the big one but he’s been doing an excellent job at Ole Miss and has a playoff caliber roster this year.
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6. Josh Heupel, Tennessee
Heupel has been a breath of fresh air for the Vols and it’s been much needed. He has the QB to make some noise for a couple of years.
7. Mark Stoops, Kentucky
The job he’s don’t at Kentucky has been very impressive despite seemingly reaching his ceiling. The next couple of years will be interesting.
8. Hugh Freeze, Auburn
He beat some juggernauts at Ole Miss and he did a great job at Liberty until the end. I think he’s the perfect fit for Auburn.
9. Eli Drinkwitz, Missouri
A breakthrough year last season was huge but now the expectations are even higher. He’s a very good coach but keeping this up will be a challenge.
10. Mike Elko, Texas A&M
He did a great job at Duke and he’s exactly what Texas A&M needs right now.
11. Brent Venables, Oklahoma
The jury is still out on Venables but he righted the ship a bit in year two. Can he keep it going in the tougher SEC?
12. Billy Napier, Florida
I think he’s a solid coach but this job is just a bit over his head.
13. Shane Beamer, South Carolina
Last year’s regression was tough to watch and I’m unsure of the direction of the program now after some initial optimism.
14. Sam Pittman, Arkansas
This is likely his last year at Arkansas barring a surprise. He weathered some tough stuff early but his lack of head coaching experience caught up to him.
15. Jeff Lebby, Mississippi State
Can’t rank him much higher as we haven’t seen a thing but he’s a solid offensive mind.
16. Clark Lea, Vanderbilt
It’s a tough job but he’s likely gone after this season.
