Realistic Candidates/Reasons

Not going to come here with hopes that Saban or Dabo are coming over. I think they are looking at a current power 5 head coach - only way to explain not even pursuing Napier.

Here’s realistic candidates still out there:

Fickell: I just don’t see him leaving now. Cincy has the best shot of any Group if 5 program ever to make the playoff. Leaving before the playoff (which he’d have to do to take the job) if Cincy gets in would really tarnish his rep. He also has no SEC ties or experience.

Aranda: this one makes a lot of sense. He’s done great at Baylor but the Big 12’s future is cloudy with OU/Texas leaving. If he wants to compete nationally, moving to the SEC makes sense. It would also make sense why it was rumored last week that LSU has their guy but haven’t announced yet, since Baylor has another week to play. Plus, the contract extension rumors seem like a smoke screen - if he was really extending, wouldn’t they have signed already? Seems like an agent ploy to boost the price tag.

Campbell: I just don’t see it. Seems like a good coach, but has no experience recruiting at a high level. The in field results this year have also been hugely disappointing - can that really be the guy?

Kiffin: don’t love the guy, but his results at Ole Miss are hard to dispute. He even managed to fix the defense, a sign that he can run a good program and isn’t just an offensive coordinator turned HC.

Cristobal: similar to Aranda, has another week to coach. Could become a very good hire.

Fisher: I don’t think he’s the guy. Also had a good thing going at A&M