Can These Struggling Coaches Turn Their Teams Around Before It’s Too Late?
College football is a ruthless arena where success is fleeting, and failure can be unforgiving. But what happens when coaches find themselves on the brink of disaster? Can they salvage their teams before the axe falls? This is the question looming over several programs this season, as coaches across the nation face mounting pressure to deliver results. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about winning games—it’s about navigating the delicate balance between patience and accountability.
Take, for instance, the case of Lane Kiffin, who recently found himself unintentionally crashing a wedding proposal at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. While Kiffin’s antics are often headline-worthy, the real drama unfolds in the coaching hot seats across the country. From the College Football Playoff expansion debate to the Heisman Trophy race, the sport is never short on controversy. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: which coaches will survive the storm, and who will be left in its wake?
The Coaches on the Hot Seat
Luke Fickell (Wisconsin): Fickell’s tenure at Wisconsin has been a rollercoaster of disappointment. Despite a public vote of confidence from athletic director Chris McIntosh, who pledged a fourth season and increased financial support, Fickell’s record speaks for itself: a dismal 7–6, followed by an abysmal 5–7, and this season’s 3–6 debacle. While quarterback injuries and a brutal schedule haven’t helped, Fickell’s decision to abandon Wisconsin’s signature ground game for an ill-fated Air Raid offense has left fans scratching their heads. Can he turn it around in 2026? Or will the Badgers be forced to look elsewhere?
Mike Norvell (Florida State): Norvell’s bold declaration that the Seminoles will reclaim their powerhouse status might sound like wishful thinking to some. With a $58 million buyout looming, Florida State finds itself in a precarious position. Norvell’s tenure has followed a perfect bell curve: a slow start, a meteoric rise, and now a catastrophic collapse. Nine straight road losses and a 2–12 ACC record have fans calling for change. But can the administration afford to part ways? Or will Norvell get one last chance to prove himself?
Dabo Swinney (Clemson): Swinney’s situation is unique. Beloved by Clemson fans, he’s the least fireable coach on this list—but that doesn’t mean he’s immune to criticism. Since winning the 2018 national championship, the Tigers have steadily declined. While Swinney’s job is safe for now, the pressure to modernize the program is mounting. The coaching, the players, the entire operation—it all needs an upgrade. But will Swinney be the one to lead that charge?
Dave Doeren (North Carolina State): Doeren holds the title of the winningest coach in NC State history, but he’s never reached the ACC championship game. With a 5–4 record and a tough schedule ahead, the Wolfpack’s inability to break through has become a sore point for fans. While Doeren’s job seems secure for now, the question remains: is he capable of taking the program to the next level?
Mike Locksley (Maryland): Locksley’s tenure has followed a similar bell curve to Norvell’s, albeit less dramatic. After three winning seasons, the Terrapins have stumbled to a 4–5 record this year. Maryland faces a critical decision: stick with Locksley and hope for a turnaround, or make a change and aim for the stars. The choice could define the program’s future.
Dave Aranda (Baylor): Aranda’s six-year tenure has had its highs—a Big 12 championship in 2021 and a six-game winning streak in 2024—but the rest has been underwhelming. With Texas, TCU, and SMU dominating the Lone Star State’s playoff scene, Baylor risks being left behind. Will Aranda be the one to lead the Bears back to prominence, or will the program seek a new direction?
Mark Stoops (Kentucky): Stoops has achieved remarkable success against Florida and Louisville, but a 4–5 record this season has fans on edge. With a $38 million buyout looming, Kentucky’s administration must decide whether Stoops is the man to lead the program forward. A winning streak could save his job, but another losing season might seal his fate.
The Counterpoint: Curt Cignetti’s Triumph
While some coaches struggle, others thrive. Curt Cignetti’s unprecedented success at Indiana serves as a stark contrast. With a 21–2 record and a recent victory over Penn State—a team he had a 1-11-1 record against as a player and assistant—Cignetti has proven that turnarounds are possible. His emotional reaction to the win spoke volumes about the significance of the moment, both personally and professionally.
The Bigger Question
As these coaches fight for their jobs, a larger question emerges: how much patience should programs have with struggling leaders? Is it better to cut ties and start fresh, or to invest in long-term development? The answer varies from school to school, but one thing is certain: the clock is ticking. And for some, time may already be up.
What do you think? Should these coaches be given more time, or is it time for a change? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out SI’s new college sports podcast, Others Receiving Votes, for more in-depth analysis. Available on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.
