Story perspectives

SEC Coaching Shuffle: 11 Programs Seek New Leaders

12/3/2025

Summary

Coaches Shuffle SEC

The SEC will have 11 Power Four programs hiring new head coaches for the 2026 season.
Lane Kiffin moves from Ole Miss to LSU, drawing attention as Auburn and Arkansas hire Group of Five coaches as early national signing day approaches.
Arkansas hires Ryan Silverfield from Memphis, a decision drawing mixed reviews.
Florida appoints Jon Sumrall, formerly of Tulane, to lead the program.
Kentucky hires Will Stein from Oregon.

Summary

Golesh Takes Helm

Auburn University hires Alex Golesh as head football coach, a pragmatic choice amid a competitive coaching landscape.
Reactions are mixed, with fans optimistic about Golesh's offensive background.
Golesh previously led the University of South Florida (USF) to a 9-3 record, their best season since 2017.
His success at the University of Tennessee with Hendon Hooker highlights his potential.
He must address defensive staff and discipline issues, as USF averaged 60 penalty yards per game.

History

Historical Context

In 2021, the NCAA experienced notable coaching shifts, exemplified by Lincoln Riley's hiring at the University of Southern California, which altered the competitive dynamics. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) anticipates 11 Power Four programs seeking new head coaches by the 2026 season, highlighting a trend of schools pursuing fresh talent to enhance performance, reminiscent of past coaching changes aimed at gaining competitive advantages.

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Coaches Shuffle SEC

The SEC will have 11 Power Four programs hiring new head coaches for the 2026 season.
Lane Kiffin moves from Ole Miss to LSU, drawing attention as Auburn and Arkansas hire Group of Five coaches as early national signing day approaches.
Arkansas hires Ryan Silverfield from Memphis, a decision drawing mixed reviews.
Florida appoints Jon Sumrall, formerly of Tulane, to lead the program.
Kentucky hires Will Stein from Oregon.

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