The pressure is mounting in the world of college football as coaches gear up for the 2025 season. With seven months until kickoff, several coaches are already feeling the heat, and their futures may hinge on how their teams perform right out of the gate. The stakes are high, and the spotlight is on those who must deliver results quickly.
Coaches Facing Pressure in 2025
As we dive into the upcoming season, let’s take a closer look at five college football coaches who are undoubtedly on the hot seat. Each of them has a unique set of challenges to navigate, and their ability to adapt will be crucial for their teams’ success.
#1. Hugh Freeze, Auburn
Hugh Freeze is entering his third season at the helm of the Auburn Tigers, but the results have been underwhelming. With an overall record of 11-14 and a postseason absence in 2024, the pressure is palpable. Competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) is no easy task, and Freeze must find a reliable quarterback to turn things around.
The numbers speak for themselves; a 5-11 record in SEC play is simply not acceptable. Despite strong recruiting classes, Freeze has struggled to translate talent into wins. Auburn fans are hoping for a turnaround before Halloween, as another lost season could lead to significant changes.
#2. Lincoln Riley, USC
Lincoln Riley, a name synonymous with high expectations, finds himself on the hot seat as he enters his fourth year with the USC Trojans. With a 26-14 record and no College Football Playoff appearances, the pressure is mounting.
Riley’s challenges extend beyond the field; recruiting has been a concern, particularly in strengthening the offensive and defensive lines to compete in the Big Ten Conference. Although he has shown promise with quarterback Jayden Maiava, the time for talk is over. Wins are needed, and they are needed soon.
#3. Mike Norvell, Florida State
Mike Norvell’s tenure at Florida State has been a rollercoaster ride since he took over in 2020. After a dismal 2-10 record in 2024, the Seminoles are in dire need of a turnaround. Norvell’s overall record of 33-27 includes three losing seasons, which raises eyebrows among fans and administrators alike.
The offensive struggles were glaring last season, with the Seminoles averaging a mere 14.8 points per game, placing them 128th out of 133 teams. While his hefty contract buyout of $56 million may keep him employed for now, the urgency to improve is evident. Florida State needs to see results, or the financial implications may become irrelevant.
#4. Brian Kelly, LSU
Brian Kelly’s position at LSU is precarious, especially when considering the success of his former team, Notre Dame, after his departure. The Tigers finished unranked last season and have yet to make a College Football Playoff appearance under Kelly’s leadership.
With a solid record of 29-11 over three seasons, the expectations were sky-high when he was hired. However, a lack of postseason success, coupled with a 4-8 record against ranked opponents, has left fans questioning the direction of the program. Kelly must rally his team and prove that LSU can compete at the highest level.
#5. Brett Venables, Oklahoma
Brett Venables is entering a critical fourth season with the Oklahoma Sooners, and the transition to the SEC has not been smooth. After a disappointing 6-7 record last year, his overall record stands at 22-17, including an alarming 0-3 in bowl games.
This is uncharacteristic for Oklahoma, a program that has historically thrived. Venables is under contract through 2030, but with a buyout of $44.8 million, the pressure is on to deliver results. A slow start to the 2025 season could jeopardize his position, and fans are eager to see improvement.
Final Thoughts
As we look ahead to the 2025 college football season, these five coaches are certainly under the microscope. The landscape of college football is ever-changing, and the ability to adapt and succeed is crucial. Which coach do you believe is most at risk of losing their job? The answers may lie in the performance of their teams as the season unfolds.
The excitement of college football is palpable, and the stakes have never been higher. With so much on the line, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these coaches respond to the pressure. The countdown to kickoff has begun, and the hot seat is heating up!
