The anticipation for the 2025 college football season is building, and with it comes the unveiling of the top 10 head coaches in the game. This list, curated by On3’s JD PicKell, has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike. As the dust settles from the previous season, it’s time to take a closer look at who made the cut and why they stand out in the ever-competitive landscape of college football.
Top Coaches Overview
Let’s dive into PicKell’s rankings and explore the coaches who are shaping the future of college football. The list features a mix of established names and rising stars, each with their unique strengths and challenges as they head into the new season.
1. Kirby Smart – Georgia Bulldogs
Leading the pack is Kirby Smart, the mastermind behind the Georgia Bulldogs. Smart has solidified his status as the premier coach in college football, boasting two national championships and another SEC title this past season. Despite facing injuries in the quarterfinals against Notre Dame, Smart’s ability to build a resilient program positions Georgia as a formidable contender for the upcoming College Football Playoff. Will they reclaim their dominance next season? It’s certainly a possibility.
2. Ryan Day – Ohio State Buckeyes
Following closely is Ryan Day, who finally broke through to claim a national title with Ohio State. While Day has faced challenges, particularly with his team’s performance against Michigan, he has proven himself as one of the best in the business. The pressure is on for him to overcome the Wolverines next season, but with a championship under his belt, can he continue to elevate the Buckeyes?
3. Steve Sarkisian – Texas Longhorns
Steve Sarkisian has revitalized the Texas Longhorns, bringing them back into the national conversation. With the talented Arch Manning stepping into the spotlight in 2025, the Longhorns are poised for a breakthrough. Sarkisian’s offensive prowess has already shown results, and with Texas adapting well to the SEC, can they finally return to the top?
4. Kalen DeBoer – Alabama Crimson Tide
Despite a challenging first year, Kalen DeBoer remains a strong candidate for success at Alabama. Missing the College Football Playoff was a setback, but his track record at Washington gives fans hope for a turnaround. Will DeBoer find the right quarterback and lead Alabama back to glory in Year 2? The stakes are high, but his potential is undeniable.
5. Dan Lanning – Oregon Ducks
Dan Lanning has shown remarkable growth as a coach at Oregon, leading the Ducks to an impressive season as the No. 1 seed before falling to Ohio State. With a loaded roster and a commitment to development and recruitment, Lanning is on track to make Oregon a national powerhouse. Can he guide the Ducks to a championship next year? The momentum is certainly in their favor.
6. Marcus Freeman – Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Marcus Freeman has firmly established himself as one of the top coaches in college football. After a stellar 14-2 season that included a 13-game winning streak, Freeman is setting high expectations for Notre Dame. The challenge now is to maintain this level of success and secure a spot in the playoffs consistently. With Freeman at the helm, the Irish are aiming for greatness.
7. Dabo Swinney – Clemson Tigers
Dabo Swinney is no stranger to success, and while Clemson’s recent seasons have been a mixed bag, he managed to lead the Tigers back to the ACC title game. With Cade Klubnik returning for another year, Swinney has the chance to push Clemson deeper into the playoff picture. Can he reclaim the championship pedigree that once defined the Tigers?
8. Brian Kelly – LSU Tigers
Brian Kelly has built a solid foundation at LSU, but the pressure is mounting for him to deliver titles. While he has yet to reach the College Football Playoff with the Tigers, his experience and recruiting prowess keep LSU in contention. Will Kelly find the right mix of talent and strategy to elevate LSU to the next level?
9. James Franklin – Penn State Nittany Lions
James Franklin has silenced some critics this past season, although Penn State fell short against Ohio State and Notre Dame. Consistency is key for Franklin, and while he’s not yet in the elite category, he has the potential to elevate Penn State to new heights. Can he harness that potential in 2025?
10. Josh Heupel – Tennessee Volunteers
Josh Heupel has done an outstanding job at Tennessee, guiding the Volunteers to the playoff this year. With quarterback Nico Iamaleava returning, Heupel has the opportunity to build on this success. Can he avoid any missteps and push Tennessee toward a championship run? The excitement surrounding the program is palpable.
These are the top 10 coaches as we head into the 2025 season. Each of them brings a unique set of skills and challenges, but one thing is certain: college football is primed for another thrilling year. As the landscape continues to evolve, which coaches will rise to the occasion, and who will face the pressure of unmet expectations? Only time will tell!
