Florida State has parted ways with head coach Mike Norvell after a 3-5 start to the season. The decision comes despite the significant buyout the university is prepared to pay, reportedly around $50 million. This opening at one of college football's prominent programs signals a potential shift in coaching hires, moving away from established veterans towards rising coordinators.
College football analyst Brooks Austin, who meticulously reviews game film, suggests that successful coordinators may be the smartest hires for programs seeking a turnaround. He points to the Kentucky Wildcats' decision to hire Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein after parting ways with Mark Stoops. Under Stein, Kentucky has seen success, leading the SEC eight games into the season.
Austin has identified several coordinators who could be prime candidates for head coaching positions. He expressed admiration for Buster Faulkner, formerly of Florida and Georgia Tech, noting his innovative offensive schemes. However, Austin also acknowledges that Faulkner's strategies have become more predictable in the SEC.
Another name on Austin's radar is Utah offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven. Austin praised McGiven's dynamic approach, which has the Utes scoring nearly 39 points per game with a unique two-quarterback system. However, Austin raised concerns about how such an unconventional offense might be perceived and potentially scrutinized by fan bases in more demanding conferences like the SEC if immediate success isn't achieved.
On the defensive side, Austin highlighted Glenn Schumann of Georgia as a highly intelligent and effective teacher of defensive concepts, despite his youth. Bryant Haines of Indiana is also mentioned, described by Austin as a "lunatic" in a positive way for his defensive coordination. Lastly, Austin pointed to Luke Olson, defensive coordinator at Louisiana Tech, as a highly respected and capable coach, even at a young age, whose defenses consistently pose a challenge.
These insights come as the college football coaching carousel begins to turn, with Florida State now in the market for a new leader.