It’s a silly thought, right? I mean, how could these guys possibly receive any fan scrutiny in 2024 since they are so beloved now? Call this the Sam Pittman factor. These guys have a grace period in 2023, but if things don’t continue on track, they’ll be under the microscope in 2024.
1. Josh Heupel, Tennessee
— 11 wins was amazing, especially after the awful hire of Jeremy Pruitt and having to dig out of his mess. But what if he has an 8-4 year? I mean, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, and Kentucky are no slouches. He’d still be fine, but would the fans accept a step back?
2. Shane Beamer, South Carolina
— Beating the Vols and Clemson has the Gamecock faithful excited. But what if he has a 7-5 season? UNC is no joke to open with, and Clemson won’t be happy losing again. And the SEC schedule isn’t easy. Fans could be pulling a Pittman on him — still loving but also wondering.
3. Mike Norvell, Florida State
— An ACC title is expected after last season. That’s the bar. If he doesn’t get over it, he’ll be okay, but what if he slumps to 8-4 or something?
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4. Sonny Dykes, TCU
— Dykes should probably have a job for life for his one season at TCU and would never come under fire. But what if he follows it with 6-6? It’s not out of the question with some of the offensive losses.
5. Dan Lanning, Oregon
— Mario who they say. But Lanning is expected to come close to a PAC 12 title this year after a very good 2022. But Washington, USC, Utah, and Oregon State are all good and Texas Tech is a tough out-of-conference game.
