ESPN has published its detailed ranking and grading of all 30 FBS college football coaching hires for the 2025 cycle, with Lane Kiffin’s transition to LSU receiving the only A+ grade. This analysis, conducted by writer Bill Connelly, evaluates each new head coach based on their fit, track record, and the logic behind their appointment, offering insights into which programs made the most sensible moves during a hectic coaching carousel.
The 2025 college football coaching carousel has been one of the most active in recent memory, with 30 FBS programs appointing new head coaches. ESPN’s Bill Connelly took on the task of grading each hire, acknowledging the inherent uncertainty in such evaluations but providing a reasoned assessment based on available data. The rankings reflect a mix of high-profile moves and under-the-radar appointments that could shape the sport for years to come.
Topping the list is Lane Kiffin’s hire by LSU, which earned an A+ grade. Kiffin, who left Ole Miss after leading the Rebels to their best three-year run in over six decades, brings a proven track record of winning double-digit games at schools without recent success. Despite the dramatic and protracted nature of his departure from Ole Miss, which included public disputes and a massive contract offer, Kiffin is seen as a perfect fit for an LSU program willing to invest heavily in a coach who checks all the boxes for success.
Several other hires received A grades, indicating strong logical fits. James Franklin’s move to Virginia Tech was praised for his history of overachieving at Vanderbilt and Penn State, making him a coup for the Hokies. Eric Morris, hired by Oklahoma State, was highlighted for his quarterback development skills and offensive innovation. Jon Sumrall’s appointment at Florida follows his success at Tulane, where he won conference titles, while Jim Mora’s hire at Colorado State is based on his turnaround of UConn’s program.
Additional notable grades include Mark Carney at Kent State, who earned his job after an interim stint that improved the team’s record, and Matt Campbell at Penn State, whose consistent winning at Iowa State made him a logical successor. Charles Huff at Memphis and Bob Chesney at UCLA also received high marks for their prior successes and potential to elevate their new programs.
Connelly’s grading acknowledges the pitfalls of such evaluations, citing examples like Scott Frost at Nebraska and Luke Fickell at Wisconsin, where seemingly perfect hires did not pan out. The exercise is framed as fun but speculative, emphasizing that much depends on how coaches adapt to new environments and the support they receive from their institutions.
The criteria for grades focus on the logic of the hire, the coach’s pedigree, and the school’s context. In an era where college football is transitioning to a player-compensation model, these hires are particularly significant as schools balance investing in coaches versus player talent. The rankings suggest that programs making data-driven, sensible choices are more likely to see rewards on the field.
Looking ahead, these coaching changes will have immediate implications for the 2026 season, affecting team strategies, recruiting, and fan expectations. As the dust settles on the carousel, the success of these hires will be closely watched, with potential to redefine program trajectories in the competitive landscape of college football.
