re: Is football coach one of the least competitive job markets out there?

The NFL is notorious for being fairly closed off and incestuous when it comes to coaches. It's why guys like Hue Jackson, Mike Mularkey, John Fox and Jim Caldwell keep getting jobs. It's why Norv Turner kept getting hired over and over again. There's a distinct level of comfort that owners want, and an intense resistance to evolve or innovate.

College is much more of a meritocracy. You work your way up and either pay your dues as a mid-major, G5 or lower tier P5 school or prove yourself as a coordinator with a good track record. If you fail, you usually don't get another shot unless you repeat that cycle and/or take a step down (e.g. Lane Kiffin, Charlie Strong). Hell, Les Miles can't even get the Minnesota job and he's got a NC ring.