This article grades the new head coaching hires in the college football offseason, and then goes further into depth on each new hire.
New Guys on the Block
Matt Rhule, Nebraska – A
Matt Rhule has a track record of turning college programs around, and quickly. He took Temple from a two-win team to a ten-win team in the span of three seasons. He turned Baylor into an eleven-win team from a two-win team in the same time span. Since 2017, Nebraska has had two three-win seasons, three four-win seasons, and a five-win season. This program is in desperate need of a quick turnaround, and I believe Rhule is the perfect guy.
Hugh Freeze, Auburn – B+
Hugh Freeze has a similar track record to Rhule. He turned Ole Miss and Liberty into very successful programs. I only gave this hire a B+ because of the off-the-field issues. If he has them solved, then this hire could be an A+. But if not, then this could end badly for Auburn. I am optimistic that Freeze will be able to help Auburn get back on track. I guess only time will tell.
Luke Fickell, Wisconsin – A
Luke Fickell coached at Cincinnati for five seasons and never won less than ten games in a season. He even took the first group of five teams ever to the Playoff. Imagine what he can do with power five resources. Wisconsin has some work to do, but I can see them being contenders within the next three to five seasons.
Deion Sanders, Colorado – A+
To me, Deion Sanders is the best hire so far. He is going to add so much talent to this roster through recruiting and the portal. Maybe to the extent to which this program has never seen. He’ll also bring in a lot of money, students, and publicity to the university. We’ll have to see how good he can be on the sidelines, but I have faith in Coach Prime and believe Colorado will be good for years to come.
Jeff Brohm, Louisville – B+
Jeff Brohm continuously produced good seasons for Purdue. He now has better resources and the ability to take his team to the next level. We have already seen that Louisville is able to and willing to throw a lot of money into NIL deals. Jeff Brohm is a very solid coach and is coaching for his Alma Mater. I think it is a great fit and one that will benefit Louisville in the future.
Brent Key, Georgia Tech – C
Brent Key took over as interim head coach for the Yellow Jackets after Geoff Collins was fired after a 1-3 start to the season. He had three wins in each of his first three seasons in Atlanta. Georgia Tech and Key went 4-4 after he took over and the players seemed to really like him. I’m just worried about how he will do in the head coach position, day in and day out. All the behind-the-scenes stuff. Georgia Tech could have gone and gotten themselves an established coach, but they took a gamble. We’ll see if it pays off.
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