In Week 7 of college football, it became evident that some schools are not getting a good return on their investment in high-priced coaches. The market for college football coaching has grown extensively, with universities handing out massive contracts to attract top talent.
One example is Texas A&M, which signed a huge, fully-guaranteed deal with Jimbo Fisher. However, Fisher’s team is now 4-3 after a disappointing road loss to Tennessee.
Mark Stoops, the head coach at Kentucky, is making over $9 million dollars a year but has lost his last two games by a combined score of 89-34. Similarly, Michigan State may avoid paying a considerable buyout nearing $80 million depending on the outcome of a sexual misconduct case against former coach Mel Tucker.
In some cases, schools pay exorbitant amounts to lure top coaches from other programs. Miami let go of Manny Diaz to sign Oregon’s Mario Cristobal to a $80 million, 10-year contract. However, Miami has struggled with an 0-2 start in ACC play this year.
USC made Lincoln Riley one of the highest-paid coaches in the sport, but the Trojans currently find themselves at best the third-place team in the Pac-12. In contrast, their previous coach, Brent Venables, is being paid nearly $4 million less at Oklahoma and has the team in contention for the College Football Playoff.
While some of these high-priced contracts do pay off, such as those for coaches like Nick Saban at Alabama and Kirby Smart at Georgia, they are the exception rather than the rule. Many schools overpay for the promise of success and stability, and it is becoming unsustainable. Perhaps 2023 will serve as a reality check for some administrations.
Fisher’s Future in Doubt
Texas A&M’s loss to Tennessee further highlights the decline of the Aggies under Jimbo Fisher’s leadership. Fisher’s fate may already be sealed, even if not officially announced. Despite Tennessee’s lackluster performance with just one touchdown and 100 yards passing, Texas A&M failed to capitalize on their weaknesses.
Fisher’s questionable decisions in recent weeks have further raised concerns. For example, taking a knee with all three timeouts remaining before halftime with a 10-7 lead was a questionable choice. Additionally, the Aggies went three-and-out on their first drive after halftime, allowing Tennessee to take control of the game. Texas A&M struggled on both offense and defense, with the Vols gaining 232 yards rushing and the defensive front recording two sacks.
Although it is unlikely that Texas A&M will fire Fisher this year unless the season completely falls apart, it is clear that his future with the program is uncertain.
Elko’s Success at Duke
In contrast, Fisher’s former defensive coordinator, Mike Elko, has been thriving at Duke. Despite a disappointing loss to Notre Dame, Elko’s team bounced back with a 24-3 victory over NC State. Despite only completing four passes in the game, Duke’s defense performed exceptionally, allowing just a field goal on NC State’s opening possession and shutting them out for the rest of the game.
In his season and a half at Duke, Elko has achieved a 14-5 record. He led the Blue Devils to their first win against Clemson in 19 years and their largest win against a ranked opponent since 1942. Duke is now in contention for the ACC title, a significant improvement from their three-straight losing seasons just two years ago. Elko deserves consideration for every coach of the year award.
Heisman Trophy Race Takes Shape
Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is emerging as a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy. In a recent game against Oregon, Penix threw for 302 yards and four touchdowns, leading his team to a 36-33 victory. Penix currently ranks second nationally in passing yards and third in touchdowns.
One of Penix’s major competitors, USC quarterback Caleb Williams, struggled with three interceptions in a game against Notre Dame. With his impressive performances and statistics, Penix may be the favorite to win the Heisman Trophy.
Pac-12 and Big 12 Championships Set
Both the Pac-12 and Big 12 championship games are expected to be rematches. Washington and Oregon are clearly the dominant teams in the Pac-12, while Texas and Oklahoma lead the way in the Big 12.
USC’s loss to Notre Dame revealed their inability to compete for a conference title. As for the Big 12, teams outside of Texas and Oklahoma have struggled against each other.
The Pac-12 Championship Game between Washington and Oregon and the Big 12 Championship Game featuring Texas and Oklahoma are highly anticipated and have major implications for the College Football Playoff.
