The landscape of college football coaching is changing as the 2025 season progresses. With 11 head coaches already dismissed from their positions, there are significant openings at leading programs such as Penn State, LSU, Florida, and Auburn. The retirements and transfers make this offseason one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, especially following Nick Saban’s retirement two years ago.
Top College Football Coaches of 2025
Kirk Ferentz – Iowa
- Tenure: 27 seasons
- Record: 210-126 (62.3%)
- First Season: 1999
- Age: 70
Hired in December 1998, Ferentz began his tenure with a challenging start but later led Iowa to consistent bowl eligibility. He ranks among the longest-serving coaches in college football.
Kyle Whittingham – Utah
- Tenure: 22 seasons
- Record: 174-88 (66.4%)
- First Season: 2005
- Age: 65
Whittingham turned down an opportunity at BYU to continue his coaching career at Utah. He has achieved remarkable success, with only three losing seasons since assuming the head coach role.
Troy Calhoun – Air Force
- Tenure: 20 seasons
- Record: 138-95 (59.2%)
- First Season: 2007
- Age: 59
Calhoun has led Air Force with significant accomplishments since taking the helm in late 2006. His teams consistently achieve eight or more wins per season.
Dabo Swinney – Clemson
- Tenure: 18 seasons
- Record: 184-52 (79.9%)
- First Season: 2009
- Age: 55
Swinney’s impact at Clemson has led the program to national prominence, winning two championships. His ability to innovate has made the Tigers formidable contenders.
Notable Coaches
- Dave Doeren – NC State: 13 seasons, 92-69 (57.1%)
- Mark Stoops – Kentucky: 13 seasons, 81-78 (50.9%)
- Jeff Monken – Army: 12 seasons, 87-61 (58.8%)
- Chris Creighton – Eastern Michigan: 12 seasons, 60-82 (42.3%)
- Chuck Martin – Miami (Ohio): 12 seasons, 70-71 (49.6%)
- Pat Narduzzi – Pittsburgh: 11 seasons, 79-58 (57.7%)
These coaches have demonstrated resilience and success in their programs. Doeren and Stoops have turned around struggling teams, while Monken has achieved notable victories with Army.
As the college football season unfolds, the coaching landscape will remain dynamic. With seasoned leaders transitioning out and new prospects emerging, fans can expect a thrilling offseason ahead.
