College football’s 2025 coaching carousel brought fewer changes than previous years, with only five power conference positions filled. The expansion of the College Football Playoff and limited high-profile openings contributed to the quieter cycle.
North Carolina’s hiring of Bill Belichick dominated headlines, marking the most significant move of the period. The SEC and Big Ten combined saw just one opening, while several coaches secured their positions through improved performance or contract situations.
Florida’s Billy Napier and Baylor’s Dave Aranda strengthened their job security with on-field success. Florida State’s Mike Norvell remained protected by significant buyout terms.
Group of Five (G5) head coaches continue to be the primary source for Power Five (P5) hires since 2017:
Power Conference Coaching Hires (2017-2024)
– G5 Head Coaches: 27
– P5 Coordinators: 19
– Internal Promotions: 15
– P5 Head Coaches: 14
– Other Sources: 15
– P5 Assistants: 4
2025 Coaching Hire Grades
North Carolina – Bill Belichick
The six-time Super Bowl champion arrives with no college coaching experience. While his NFL expertise is unmatched, questions remain about his long-term commitment to college football.
Grade: B-
Purdue – Barry Odom
Odom transformed UNLV with a 20-8 record over two seasons. His previous Power Five experience at Missouri (25-25) provides valuable perspective for rebuilding Purdue’s program.
Grade: B+
UCF – Scott Frost
Frost returns to where he led a 13-0 season in 2017. His subsequent tenure at Nebraska (15-29) raises concerns about adapting to college football’s evolved landscape.
Grade: D
Wake Forest – Jack Dickert
Dickert’s 23-20 record at Washington State, including success during conference realignment challenges, demonstrates adaptability. Wake Forest offers a more stable environment.
Grade: B+
West Virginia – Rich Rodriguez
Rodriguez returns to his former program where he went 31-5 in his final three seasons. Recent success at Jacksonville State (18-9) suggests he can quickly elevate West Virginia in the Big 12.
Grade: A
The 2025 cycle featured two notable returns – Frost to UCF and Rodriguez to West Virginia – plus three coaches with previous Power Five experience seeking redemption at new programs.
