NFL
By: Matt Brunelli
With only seven weeks left in the 2025 college football season, several Power Four schools have parted ways with their head coaches. Let’s predict who these programs might hire to lead them next.
1. Penn State
James Franklin was fired after three straight losses and a tenure marked by struggles in big games. Penn State is ready for a new chapter, and I believe their search will focus on a familiar face: Matt Rhule, a former Nittany Lions player and current Nebraska head coach. Rhule has often said he’d love to coach at his alma mater. While he’s passionate about Nebraska’s program, the chance to lead Penn State—his dream job—might be too tempting to pass up.
2. Florida
Florida fired Billy Napier last Sunday. Despite his recruiting talent, Napier was unable to maximize his players’ potential. The Gators crave a return to the Urban Meyer era of national championships, especially with their basketball team winning titles again. All eyes were on football, but Napier’s squad fell short. Rumors link Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin to the job, but I think the more seasoned Kiffin will stay in Oxford. Florida wants a proven Power Four coach (not James Franklin). My pick? Iowa State’s Matt Campbell.
3. Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech is still searching for a successor to legendary coach Frank Beamer after firing Brent Pry last week. The real issue lies with Athletic Director Whit Babcock, whose history of poor hires across sports has hindered the program. Until Babcock is replaced, progress may stall. His rushed hire of Pry four years ago, following Justin Fuente’s failure (despite a big extension), baffled many in Blacksburg. Former NFL coach and Virginia Tech star quarterback Bruce Arians is aiding the search. Fans still view Virginia Tech as a top destination, but with other job openings looming, the Hokies need to act fast. James Franklin could thrive in the ACC’s weaker competition and has recruited the area well, but I doubt he’d choose Virginia Tech. My prediction: USF’s Alex Golesh, a rising star, fits perfectly.
4. Arkansas
Two weeks ago, Arkansas fired Sam Pittman and named former head coach Bobby Petrino, now offensive coordinator, as interim coach. Since Petrino’s 2011 exit, Arkansas has cycled through four coaches, none above .500. Petrino’s interim stint is 0-2, though the Razorbacks fought hard against No. 12 Tennessee and No. 4 Texas A&M. Can he reclaim the full-time role? I don’t think so—Arkansas can’t relive 2011. After investing heavily in basketball to land John Calipari (who reached the Sweet 16), it’s time to prioritize football. James Franklin, despite his Penn State struggles, could be the answer. Arkansas’s lower expectations would suit him, and 9-10 wins a season, with occasional CFP and SEC title contention, would thrill fans. This move works for both sides.
5. UCLA
DeShaun Foster was fired after being thrust into the head coaching role when Chip Kelly bolted for Ohio State. Foster, a former running backs coach, struggled to find balance as head coach. Hopefully, he’ll land a coordinator role to rebuild his coaching path. Since his exit, UCLA has gone 3-1 under interim coach Tom Skipper, who also led Fresno State to a 7-7 record as interim in 2023-2024. Skipper’s leadership has transformed the Bruins, and his 20+ years of coaching experience make him the clear choice. UCLA shouldn’t look elsewhere—Skipper deserves the full-time job.
