Florida State has fired head coach Mike Norvell after the Seminoles opened the season 3-5. The decision was notable not only because of the team’s record, but also because the school is reportedly facing a buyout of about $50 million.
One of college football’s top coaching jobs is now open, and speculation is already turning to who might take over. Florida State could pursue a well-known head coach, but recent hires suggest that a less obvious candidate may be worth considering.
Kentucky, for instance, moved on from Mark Stoops after 13 years and hired Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein. The Wildcats have made an impressive start to the season, leading the SEC after eight games.
So which coordinators could be the next to make the jump? College football analyst Brooks Austin, who spends hours studying game film, shared several names he thinks deserve attention.
Austin has long admired Buster Faulkner, praising his work at Georgia Tech and his current role as Florida’s offensive coordinator. Faulkner’s reputation has taken some knocks recently, Austin noted, as opponents appear to be getting a better read on his approach.
Utah offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven is another name Austin likes. In his first season in Salt Lake City, McGiven has helped the Utes average close to 39 points per game, using an inventive system that features two quarterbacks.
Austin enjoys the variety in Utah’s offense, though he wonders whether McGiven would get much patience at a major SEC program if results were slow to arrive. Some fans, he suggested, might dismiss the scheme as a high school offense before giving it time to work.
Austin also pointed to a few defensive coordinators. Georgia’s Glenn Schumann stands out for his intelligence and ability to teach concepts, while Indiana’s Bryant Haines has impressed him with an unconventional, high-energy approach.
Louisiana Tech defensive coordinator Luke Olson is another potential candidate who may not be getting much attention. Austin said Olson, who is in his early 30s, is highly respected by opposing offenses, which expect a difficult matchup when they face his defense.
There are plenty of talented coaches around college football, and Florida State may ultimately choose a different direction. Still, Austin’s list offers several names the Seminoles could consider as they look for their next head coach.
