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O’Brien, Washington, or Calhoun? Breaking Down the Boston College Head Coach Finalists

The Eagles are down to three candidates as they look to replace Jeff Hafley. Who is the best fit in Chestnut Hill?

Avatar photoMike Huesmann| February 9, 2024 (Updated: July 24, 2025)
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Aug 3
Aug 3

By: Mike Huesmann


The word is that Boston College is down to three candidates to replace Jeff Hafley as their next head coach. Bill O’Brien, Al Washington, and Troy Calhoun. Here, I break down why each would be a good fit.


Bill O’Brien

Offensive Coordinator, Ohio State

Why he’s a fit: As a head coach, he’s a winner.

He took over at Penn State in the wake of one of the two biggest scandals in the 100+ years of college football and kept them competitive. In fact, he did so well that an NFL team hired him. He went there and coached six full seasons and won the division 4 of those years. If you want a high-floor guy who can guarantee a bump, look no further than Bill.

Alabama offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien watches quarterback Bryce Young throw during practice before the 2021 football season.

Al Washington

Defensive Line, Notre Dame

Why he’s a fit: Of the three candidates, he will bring the most buzz and energy.

He’s dynamic, younger, and a magnetic recruiter and coach. He’s been at three blue bloods in recent years and appears ready to be a head coach. This is also his alma mater. No one knows the place better than he does. In terms of recruiting defensive talent, where the Eagles desperately need help, he probably gives you the biggest bump here.

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The Boston College Head Coach Search is narrowing down, according to @AJBlack247

The frontrunner is Bill O’Brien, with Paul Cryst and Al Washington in the mix as well.

New England Football Journal (@kstone06) states Bill O’Brien “absolutely” wants the job, and BC wants him to… pic.twitter.com/lCgctA3pSK

— College Football Report (@CFBRep) February 5, 2024


Troy Calhoun

Head Coach, Air Force

Why he’s a fit: He’s won with less.

Few guys have won this consistently at the service academies, and no other schools have the lack of talent and recruiting disadvantages that the service academies deal with. BC will likely never be able to dole out a high amount of NIL money nor compete for the nation’s best recruits, who are very rarely coming from New England. 

Nov 5, 2022; Arlington, Texas, USA; Air Force Falcons head coach Troy Calhoun celebrates with the Commanders Classic trophy after a win against the Army Black Knights at Globe Life Field.
Category: College Football, NewsTag: Al Washington, Bill O'Brien, Boston College Eagles, Jeff Hafley, Troy Calhoun
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