Next in Line: Who's the Next Replacement Coach at Every College Football Program

There are only 27 weeks remaining until the 2012 season starts, but why not put your far distant hats from the future on?

Some absolutely despise predicting the future, while others enjoy nothing more. So, who will be your next coach at every single program in America?

Wait. Try to have a little bit of fun with me here without going bonkers. I already know that there are 27 brand-new coaches, so relax when you see a slide of who the next coach will be even if your new coach has not even had a practice under his belt yet. 

After all, we are now in the offseason and need to dream just a tad to make the days speed up.

Note: I did not include the four new FBS teams for the 2012 season and have nothing but the ultimate respect for every coach and assistant out there. I also avoided getting too wild with random names and tried to keep it in-house with several assistants instead of some home-run names from the NFL.

Alabama: Kirby Smart

Kirby cannot be the head coach for every single school in America, but try telling that to most fans, who desperately want the current best coordinator in the country to lead their program to new heights.

Nick Saban is the best coach in America right now, and it is not that close if you ask most fans. Saban I think is human and will eventually step away from the game (at least when he cannot walk himself).

Which Crimson Tide will eventually take over the reins from Saban in your opinion? 

Arkansas: Paul Petrino

Though he is just eight years younger than his brother, Bobby, Paul Petrino could be the one to take over since he has quite the offensive mind as well.

The Razorbacks have been potent in the SEC with a tremendous vertical passing attack. Plus, defensive coordinator Paul Haynes could take over as well, though Bobby Petrino is the man right now.

Auburn: Scott Loeffler

There could be a bunch of other names to develop whenever the time comes to a near (may be a while) for Gene Chizik.

Scott Loeffler is the new offensive coordinator, and he could become a hot commodity for a MAC school, but Auburn wouldn’t let him leave if they pay the big bucks and promise him a shot as the next head coach.

Florida: Bryant Young

I could list a bunch of other possibilities, but I prefer to stay in-house, and Bryant Young wouldn’t be a bad choice. The former All-American at Notre Dame and stud with the San Francisco 49ers has gone a bit unnoticed thus far. 

Georgia: Todd Grantham

Having spend most of his coaching career in the NFL, Todd Grantham has done a sensational job with the Dawgs so far.

In 2010 they finished the year at 23rd in defensive yards allowed (328) and this past season they climbed all the way up to fifth (277).

Kentucky: Calvin Magee, John Chavis, Bud Foster

Clearly, this is a hunch at the moment, though Magee has the chance to become special. He is currently the OC at Arizona, but coming to Kentucky is not the hottest of choices these days (since they are arguably the worst team out there heading into the SEC next year; Ole Miss too).

Bud Foster has always been a hot commodity with the Hokies; plus, he is from the state of Kentucky. However, the rumors will be swirling if Joker Phillips does get the axe this season, assuming that they were to struggle miserably again.

LSU: John Chavis

The arguably best defensive coordinator in the country is three years younger than the “Mad Hatter,” and he could be the guy to take over once Les decides his time is up.

Every coach eventually moves on, but Miles (will he ever leave to say, Michigan, if it presents itself?) could win a few more SEC and BCS titles before he heads off to the sunset.

Ole Miss: Mark Hudspeth

Hugh Freeze has just taken over in Oxford for Houston Nutt, so anybody’s guess would be a decent one.

There are several young coordinators that we may not even be aware of right now that could take the Rebels head coaching gig in several seasons. Freeze currently has a four-year deal, so predicting the next coach is a bit tough and inappropriate. 

Mississippi State: Les Koenning

Dan Mullen is just entering his fourth season, and the Bulldogs have been a solid and consistent program. There are boatload of coaches of all ages that would love a shot at coaching in the SEC.

David Lee has been a hot commodity in recent years, though he is currently 58 and with the Buffalo Bills (QB coach). The current Bulldogs offensive coordinator (Les Koenning) could be the prime suspect if Mullen is offered an even better job in the near future.

Tennessee: Kirby Smart, Jon Gruden, Mike Gundy

The Alabama defensive coordinator (Kirby Smart) would be a solid fit on account that he is one of the best coordinators on the planet right now.

There have been several other names floating, such as Mike Gundy and David Cutcliffe, and that guy named Jon Gruden (graduate assistant 1986-1987) could spark some interest in Knoxville. 

South Carolina: Lorenzo Ward

This won’t be an easy day for college football or South Carolina fans. There are seemingly hundreds of assistants and head coaches (the MAC has a few) that come out of nowhere, and I could see that in this future case.

For now, Lorenzo Ward is the defensive coordinator. He is entering his third season, and his defense has been flying high as of late.

Vanderbilt: Bob Shoop

James Franklin put together one fine season in the first year of his tenure, and the Commodores would not be making a change anytime soon.

However, the time will eventually come, though it may take a decade if Franklin keeps bowling. Bob Shoop has been a solid defensive coordinator thus far, and despite being 45 (Franklin is 40), he could be the one that steps up to the plate.

Missouri: Dave Yost

Having spent the last 11 seasons at Missouri, Dave Yost seems to be Gary Pinkel’s partner in crime. Whenever Pinkel does decide to leave, Yost could be the obvious choice.

A&M: Kliff Kingsbury

The former quarterback coach at Houston is now with the Aggies as Kevin Sumlin’s offensive coordinator. This former record setter also knows how to run a productive offense, and in time, he may get his due.

Boston College: Doug Martin

The offensive coordinator already has some head coaching experience at Kent State, and although it wasn’t a home run, Martin could be the prime suspect to Frank Spaziani’s job in the near future.

It is possible that BC goes off the board a tad and attempts to get a big name, though they just want to get back to becoming a relevant team in the ACC.

Clemson: Brent Venables

Another great job to have at Clemson, Brent Venables has been one of the best assistant coaches in the country for several years.

In fact, this Clemson team has the makings of becoming a national contender if they can fill some of the holes they have at the lines of scrimmage.

If Dabo were to struggles miserably (possible; not likely), then Venables could be the eventual man in charge.

Duke: Jim Knowles

Certainly some successful high school coaches could be getting a call very soon, but that is always expected assuming your program isn't attempting to get the next best assistant on another staff. If they had to make a quick decision, their defensive coordinator would not be a bad pick.

Florida State: Mark Stoops

The Seminoles will not likely be pondering such a thought for a decade (if not longer).

Still, Mark Stoops has been elevating his defense every single season, and 2012 could be a special one. FSU will pray that he stays as long as possible since some other programs may throw those dollars at him.

Georgia Tech: Brian Bohannon

Paul Johnson has turned around a program that has had its struggles before, so similar to many successful coaches around the country, they are not thinking of a replacement.

Brian Bohannon serves as the quarterback/b-backs coach and has done a fine job thus far. 

Maryland: Mike Lockley

Maybe the Terps wouldn’t dare to think of Mike Locksley as their next head coach, but many didn’t think they would ever see a 2-10 season either.

Miami FL: Jedd Fisch

Another hot-shot coordinator will be waiting for his turn, but let us give Al Golden an opportunity to actually take this squad back to relevancy.

North Carolina: Blake Anderson

The offensive coordinator is a young up-and-coming coach that will be the guy helping lead Larry Fedora’s squad to new heights. Whenever Fedora is no longer around, this would become a possibility depending on a possible contract extension. 

NC State: Dana Bible

Tom O’Brien is entering his sixth season, and he is getting up there in age. His Pack are, however, on the verge of becoming a legit top-25 team, but the coordinator who has helped him out a ton has been Dana Bible.   

Virginia: Bill Lazor

At just 39 years old, Bill Lazor has a chance to be a head coach in the near future. He has already been with a few college (Cornell and Buffalo) and pro teams (Washington and Seattle).

Virginia Tech: Bud Foster

Bud Foster is going to land somewhere, and many believe he made a mistake of not listening to more collegiate teams and actually taking any offer.

There is nothing wrong with staying firm in Blacksburg with a legendary coach like Frank Beamer, though. 

Wake Forest: Steed Lobotzke

The offensive coordinator for the Deacons has had success for the past nine seasons, and he would likely become a strong candidate whenever Grobe is no longer the one in charge.

Baylor: Phil Bennett

Many coaches in Texas would likely be a more obvious choice than the current defensive coordinator.

However, it is tough (more like impossible) to guess who the next guy in charge is, since it could be a few years or it could be a decade.

Bennett really impressed the nation while improving the Bears defense, and more of the same should continue next season.

Iowa State: Courtney Messingham

The current offensive coordinator is trending a bit with the recent success the Cyclones have had with Paul Rhoads at the helm.

Kansas: Rob Ianello

Despite the lack of success during his time at Akron, the current Jayhawks wide receivers coach has head coaching experience.

Charlie Weis should have moderate success if he finds a few more playmakers on both sides of the ball, but it will not be an easy task on account KU has not come close to playing in a bowl since 2008 (Insight).

Kansas State: Sean Snyder

When your father is the greatest coach in Wildcat history, you might have a chance to succeed whenever he decides to no longer to be one of the most successful and underrated coaches in the BCS era.

Currently, Sean Snyder is an associate head coach/special teams coordinator, but has been around the program for 16 seasons already.

Oklahoma: Josh Heupel

The former quarterback for the Boomer Sooners, Josh Heupel has been a tremendous offensive coordinator thus far in Norman.

Brent Venables was originally their top guy on defense, but he has since left for Clemson.

Plus, despite sharing the offensive duties with Jay Norvell, Heupel has made their offense put up video-game numbers with Landry Jones at quarterback (at least pre-Broyles injury).

Oklahoma State: Todd Monken

Don’t assume these coaches are going to get fired because some may be lured for the dream job. Mike Gundy would fit under this, and the offensive coordinator could be the next one calling all the shots. Bill Young as the defensive coordinator could be a possibility as well.

TCU: Jarrett Anderson

Going into his 15th season with the Horned Frogs, Jarrett Anderson has been the offensive coordinator for the past three seasons.

Gary Patterson isn’t going to stay at TCU forever, will he? He honestly could, but many still believe Patterson will leave for another prestigious program. 

Texas: Manny Diaz

The guru defensive coordinator is one of the highest paid in the country, and he is deserving of a shot whenever Mack Brown decides to step down.

The Longhorns look to be back on the national rise, so it may take several seasons before there is even a thought of a change.

Texas Tech: Neal Brown

Two seasons as the offensive coordinator, Neal Brown has been solid for such a young coach. Tommy Tuberville has had moderate success in his two seasons at Lubbock, but in time, his time as a coach will be up. 

West Virginia: Robert Gillispie

The Mountaineers recruiting has started to pick up, and it is because the running backs coach, Robert Gillispie, has landed some top-notch prizes.

Dana Holgorsen clearly is going to be in Morgantown for quite a while with the way his offense is picking up some steam, so take your own best guess on who the next man in charge will be in (arguably) 10-plus seasons. 

Cincinnati: Mike Bajakian

This young offensive coordinator and quarterback will be entering his second season, but in time, he will be a hot commodity assuming the success of the program continues. 

Connecticut: Shane Day

The current Huskies quarterbacks coach had some time in the NFL with Mike Martz, and he is young enough to get an opportunity down the road. Matt Cersosimo is another option, as he is a solid receiver coach on top of coordinating the recruits. 

Louisville: Shawn Watson

Charlie Strong is taking this team on the rise right now, and it does not look like he is going to take a back seat to anybody. Plus, the ‘Ville look like they will be contending for a Big East title in the near future. Shawn Watson is the current offensive coordinator and will look to develop Teddy Bridgewater into a star. 

Pittsburgh: Joe Rudolph

Formerly with Paul Chryst at Wisconsin, Joe Rudolph was a tight ends and recruiting coordinator. After a few more coaching changes at Pittsburgh, Rudolph is the current offensive coordinator.

Chryst will be obviously be given some time to succeed with the Panthers, so it may be some time before we ponder who is the next one in charge.

Rutgers: Robb Smith

The Scarlet Knights defensive coordinator may be a hot commodity in the near future, although Kyle Flood is fairly young and may be there for some time.

Throw in the solid recruiting class they just brought in, and the Scarlet Knights should be well on their way to becoming a legit squad every season.

South Florida: Todd Fitch

The offensive coordinator of the Bulls needs to have a big year ahead of them with B.J. Daniels back.

Fitch was with Skip Holtz during their time at ECU, and they would both prefer to have life the way it is right now, albeit a few more wins down the road in Tampa. 

Syracuse: Pete Lembo

Having been to Michigan, Stanford, Western Michigan and Northern Illinois as a defensive coordinator, Scott Shafer could be the rejuvenation that Syracuse may need in the future.

However, give me Pete Lembo at Ball State. An East Coast guy, I look for him to really turn the tables at Ball State, as he looks destined be the next coach from the MAC to head to a BCS conference.

Doug Marrone surely needs to get back to the postseason so he can avoid any sort of a future hot seat, since changes to the ACC may only make things tougher on the program.

Illinois: Chris Beatty

Tim Beckman just took the job, for Pete's sake, although failing to reach the postseason may already start the naysayers going.

The co-offensive coordinator will look to make a nice impact in his first season, since he did have success with West Virginia (2008-2010) and Northern Illinois (2007).

Indiana: Mike Ekeler

Kevin Wilson did not do anything to impress you in year one, so who could be the next candidate if he were to struggle like this for several more seasons?

Well, co-defensive coordinator Mike Ekeler has a year under his belt with the Hoosiers as well, and he could be a reliable option in near time. 

Iowa: Brian Ferentz

The Hawkeyes do not even have an offensive coordinator yet, but Kirk Ferentz did just bring in his son, Brian, from the New England Patriots to coach the offensive line.

Stranger things have happened, and Kirk isn’t going to coach past 2020 (contract expires), will he?

Michigan: Jeff Hecklinski

Wait, really?

Jeff Hecklinski is the current wide receivers coach that will be entering his second season under Brady Hoke. He had solid success at San Diego State with Hoke and is my outside-the-box choice here.

Maybe you wll believe that Michigan will always get the big name since they can get whoever they want. Names that you may have expected were Jim Harbaugh, Les Miles, Gary Patterson, Chris Petersen or a bunch of other potential NFL coaches.

Brady Hoke is going to achieve a ton of success (like his first year showed), so predicting the distant future is not exactly an easy walk in the park.

Michigan State: Pat Narduzzi

One of the most underrated coordinators in the country is starting to finally receive some high praise. The guy is arguably a top-five defensive mind in the game, and his Spartans are getting better by the second these days. 

Minnesota: Chris Mussman

Jerry Kill signed a seven-year deal, so it is not easy to start thinking about a replacement. Some argue that Kill’s health may play a factor, but the guy needs some time to develop a program first.

A few coaches from the FCS could draw some interest, but call this a shot in the dark on Mussman (though he was from the state of Minnesota).

North Dakota State had a solid 8-3 campaign during the 2011 season, and he could draw interest if his Fighting Sioux continue to make the postseason, and then some.

Nebraska: Tim Beck

In a decade, the current offensive coordinator could become the guy to take Bo Pelini’s job. A few BCS or at least New Year’s Day bowls would likely be on the way, though. 

Northwestern: Dave Doeren

Pat Fitzgerald has another contract all the way through the 2020 season, so want to take a guess on the next one to come to Evanston?

Certainly they could buy out his contract if they wanted to, but the Cats have not had enough success to likely make such a move.

Dave Doeren is a coach that just finished up his first season with the Huskies, and he is from the Midwest (Drake and Kansas). Similar to Fitzgerald, Doeren’s specialty is as a linebacker and defensive guru.

Ohio State: Luke Fickell

Urban Meyer may stay for the six years, or perhaps get an extension eventually, but Luke Fickell will only improve and learn from the experience he went through.

After Ohio State had to let loose on Jim Tressel, Fickell was put in an impossible position. He will learn a lot under Meyer, and he may be handed the torch in the very near future.

Penn State: Dan Mullen

He has been linked to the Nittany Lions for a few seasons now, and if Bill O’Brien does not get something going in the next three seasons, he may get lit on the hot seat.

Mullen should continue to have the Bulldogs in the mix for a postseason trip, though nothing else may come in the nasty SEC West. 

Purdue: Tim Tibesar

Danny Hope’s third season was a solid one with all the injuries that the team had to deal with.

Still, he has gone just 16-21, and the Boilermakers do not exactly bring in the best players inside and outside the state of Indiana. Tim Tibesar was a solid defensive coordinator in the CFL and could be a ringer with the Boilermakers. 

Wisconsin: Matt Canada

Bret Bielema has a contract all the way through the 2016 season, and he may win a few more Big Ten titles before he goes off into the sunset.

Matt Canada may or may not still be around, but he impressed the majority of the public last season at Northern Illinois.

ECU: Brian Mitchell

Ruffin McNeil is just 11-14 thus far with the Pirates, and a young coordinator seems to get their opportunities in cases like these.

If East Carolina does not find a way to put some bowl berths very soon, then ECU will be making a quick decision.

Brian Mitchell is the current defensive coordinator and has some work ahead of him on account the Pirates have been abysmal against the pass as of late.

Houston: Mike Nesbitt

Tony Levine will be given an opportunity to succeed with the Cougars, but an up-and-coming coordinator by the name of Mike Nesbitt could be given a chance. 

Marshall: Tony Petersen

Doc Holliday got over the hump last season with a bowl victory, but the Herd have not exactly been unstoppable in C-USA. Tony Petersen had some time with Minnesota, but has been with Marshall since 2010. 

Memphis: Barry Odom

Predicting the next Memphis coach would be a bit absurd since Justin Fuente is only 35 and has yet to even coach a game with the Tigers. The Tigers will attempt to turn what has been a miserable past few seasons, and the hope is that Fuente can lead them back to relevancy.

Rice: John Reagan

Entering the third year (second as OC) with Rice, John Reagan may need to take over David Bailiff if he cannot take this squad (eventually) back to the postseason. They went 10-3 in 2008, but they have gone 13-35 in the other four seasons.

SMU: Jason Phillips

June Jones is going to be 60 years old after the 2012 season, and somebody will fill the shoes eventually. Jason Phillips would be primed to be the next one in charge after showing what he can do at Houston with Kevin Sumlin at the helm.

Southern Miss: Grady Brown

Another young coach will be waiting in the wings when Ellis Johnson takes a step back from coaching for good. Having been in the SEC since 2004, it will be interesting to see if the Golden Eagles can keep the swagger they had with Larry Fedora.

Tulane: Eric Price

Any coaching that is young and that is entering his first year as a coordinator can quickly impress if he succeeds right out of the gates.

Having some experience with Memphis for the last two seasons should help since he is staying within the same conference, but he also had some time in the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs as their wide receivers coach.

Tulsa: Adam Blankenship

Having your father as the head coach give you a shot to quickly climb up the ranks, and starting off as a defensive line coach is a start.

The rest of the coaching staff does not have the looks of taking over, so a quick hire would be unlikely assuming Tulsa keeps winning.

UAB: Jeff Brohm

Maybe it is just me, but I will always remember Jeff yelling at his brother, Brian, when they were at Louisville.

Garrick McGee (38) is two years younger, but the Blazers have been abysmal (last bowl appearance in 2004). No program enjoys losing, but the hope is that they can slowly get back to being a .500 ball club. 

UCF: Chris Cosh

Currently the defensive coordinator with South Florida, the Knights could go in-state to find a new head coach.

Or perhaps they would go after a guy like John Chavis (Jim Leavitt would be interesting if he gets second chance), who may bring some intrigue, though there are a few SEC teams they would love to snag him ahead of.

George O’Leary is likely in his final season, and it just depends on where UCF wants to go with their next coach. They need somebody with a ton of integrity on account they are facing some recruiting restrictions, so you are welcomed to take your best guess.

UTEP: Andre Patterson

Perhaps Mark Price’s son, Aaron, would be a fit if the Miners were dominating C-USA or at least reaching the postseason every season, but the struggles have made it evident that a change is needed.

Andre Patterson is the current defensive coordinator, and he has a ton of experience and success on the professional and collegiate levels.

Akron: Alan Arrington

North Alabama’s former offensive coordinator under Terry Bowden will give him first dibs at Akron when Bowden decides to step down.

Obviously, Terry is entering his first season, so we need to allow him to be able to turn around the program before we honestly look for a replacement.

Ball State: Jay Bateman

Pete Lembo may be going soon in Muncie mainly because he is slowly building a program. They went a respectable 6-6 in his first season, and it may not be long before they post a near double-digit season.

If that does occur, then another high-profile program will stash him away, and the current and young defensives coordinator (Jay Bateman) would be next in line.

Bowling Green: Warren Ruggiero

The current offensive coordinator would be a solid choice to eventually replace Dave Clawson. In the MAC, we never predict what lies ahead on the future, so we are playing it safe here with young coordinators that have a bright future.

Buffalo: Alex Wood

Jeff Quinn has not had a ton of success through two seasons, but he still has two years left on his contract. He may need a postseason trip to keep his job, assuming he does not receive an extension.  

Alex Wood (OC) may get his opportunity despite having not coached since the late 90s with James Madison. Wood does have experience at the NFL level and could be leaned upon if the Bulls need to make that change in two seasons.

Central Michigan: Dan Roushar

Big Ten assistants are often given a shot in the MAC, and having coached as an assistant in the MAC could be a great opportunity for Dan Roushar (former OC of Michigan State). The Chips could still turn things around with Dan Enos, but they do not look pleasant at the moment.

Eastern Michigan: Curt Mallory

Another Michigan man could be given a shot at Eastern Michigan, even though it is clear this is Ron English’s program at the moment. At the age of just 43, English also is on the verge of giving the program its first winning season since 1995!

Kent State: Tom Herman

The Buckeyes offensive coordinator will always be a hot commodity for an up-and-coming MAC program, and Kent State fits the profile. Urban Meyer would not struggle finding a replacement, and Kent State may need a new coach eventually (Darrell Hazell entering second season).

Miami Ohio: Pete Rekstis

This would be your typical defensive coordinator ready to take over for Don Treadwell, especially if the struggles continue. Though it was just one season, the Redhawks surely need some improvement after going 4-8.

Northern Illinois: Ryan Nielsen

Dave Doeren may not leave for a long time if he continues to win MAC titles, but he may also be brought into another program. Ryan Nielsen could be the one guy to take over the program since he is the current co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach (recruit coord).

Ohio: Tim Albin

Tim Albin turned quarterback Boo Jackson into a successful one, and he is now doing the same with Tyler Tettleton.

As the assistant head coach and offensive coordinator, Albin has given the Bobcats a ton of upside and consistency. Frank Solich has his contract expire after the 2013 season, which will allow them to start looking at candidates in the near future.

Temple: Ryan Day

A former Boston College receivers coach, Ryan Day (current co-OC) is a young coach that could eventually take over for Steve Addazio.

The Owls look like MAC contenders after getting their first bowl victory since 1979, so it may be a while before Temple looks at a new head ball coach.

Toledo: Tom Matukewicz

Talk about the youngest coaching staff in all of college football. Matt Campbell will be entering his first season, and he is indeed the youngest in the game at 32.

Tom Matukewicz is the current defensive coordinator at 38. His experience comes from Northern Illinois, where he has spent the last three seasons (LB coach).

“Tuke” was also the replacement coach for the Huskies in their 2010 Humanitarian Bowl thrashing over Fresno State.

Western Michigan: Rich Nagy

Bill Cubit has his contract expire after the 2013 season, so the current defensive coordinator may be next in line for the head gig.

Cubit’s son, Ryan, may get a chance down the road, albeit he has been with the program for just the last two seasons (co-OC and assistant coach, QB coach).

Air Force: Steve Russ

Troy Calhoun has gone to five straight bowls and has posted a solid 41-24 record. Calhoun has four years left on his contract, which may be enough time for current defensive coordinator and former Falcon linebacker Steve Russ to garner some attention.

Boise State: Houston Nutt

This may be a bit on the wild side, but Houston Nutt could eventually be on the Broncos' radar after we saw him coach the team back in 1997.

The Smurfs will only hope that Chris Petersen is immortal (his record shows us he is) and that he will never leave. I have been called the president of the Smurfs and Petersen, since he is as good as it gets in my eyes, but some are wondering if he really does not want to even ponder leaving until his Broncos win a BCS title.

He has turned down numerous offers seemingly every single offseason, but when (if ever) will he go? 

Colorado State: Bill Napier

The current assistant to Jim McElwain on top of the QB coach could allow Bill Napier to turn into a strong head coaching candidate someday. For now, though, that job belongs to McElwain, as he is eager to start his program off on the right foot in 2012.

Fresno State: Dave Schramm

Tim DeRuyter, of course, is looking for a nice start to his head coaching tenure with the Bulldogs, but his offensive coordinator has been an exceptional coordinator for several seasons.

Since 2005, Schramm has been with the Utah Utes (RB, QB, TE and OC). Prior to Utah, he was at Montana, Southwest Texas State and San Diego State. 

Hawaii: Brian Norwood

He was linked to be a possible replacement for Greg McMackin, but instead, Hawaii went with Norm Chow.

Chow isn’t going to be around forever at the age of 65, so Brian Norwood would be a solid fit. He currently is the assistant head coach to Art Briles at Baylor and was a former defensive back for Hawaii (1984-1988).

Nevada: Nick Rolovich

Chris Ault has had three stints with Nevada and is already in the College Football Hall of Fame. At 65 years of age, Ault knows his time is coming to a near, especially since he has just two years left on his contract.

Nick Rolovich is a genius offensive mind and had success at Hawaii before heading over to the Pack. A former Hawaii quarterback, Rolovich is just 33 years of age.

New Mexico: Archie McDaniel

Bob Davie is taking over for the Lobos in 2012, so it may take some time before the Lobos look at a new coach to step in (six-year contract).

A former linebacker at Texas A&M, Archie McDaniel had success with Tulsa as their tight ends/H-backs coach. The Lobos currently do not have a defensive coordinator, so certainly, candidates could change in the near future. 

San Diego State: Andy Ludwig

Andy Ludwig could replace Rocky Long in four seasons, if not sooner. The Aztecs did not have the season they were likely looking for, and now, they are without Ronnie Hillman or Ryan Lindley in the backfield.

Ludwig has a nice resume of being an OC at Cal, Utah, Oregon, Fresno State and Cal Poly. He even was as QB coach at Boise State (1995-1996), so it is possible the Aztecs go in-house for their next eventual coach.

UNLV: J.D. Williams

Bobby Hauck was unbeatable seemingly in the FCS at Montana, where he went 80-17 (47-6 in Big Sky). However, going 4-21 through three seasons at UNLV is about as disastrous as it gets.

James Williams is a young defensive coordinator that has a bright future, and he may be pushed into the spotlight sooner than expected if the Rebels cannot get it going in the Mountain West.

Wyoming: Gregg Brandon

Gregg Brandon had solid success with Bowling Green, as he won two MAC titles (went 44-30, six seasons).

Dave Christensen still has work to do, albeit time is on his side (contract goes through 2016 season). The Cowboys have gone 18-20 with two bowl appearances under Christensen thus far.

Arizona: Calvin Magee

Rich Rodriguez has not even coached a game yet in Tuscon, and I have to think of who the new coach will eventually be? Calvin Magee was a legit coordinator and offensive mind when he was Richy’s guy at West Virginia and Michigan. 

Arizona State: Mike Norvell

The entire Pac-12 seemingly brought in a new coaching staff this offseason, so guessing when the next coach will come for a few of these programs will be like trying to pick the winning lotto ticket.

Or maybe it shouldn’t be that tough with teams like USC, Oregon and Stanford dominating the conference? Mike Norvell is a guy that has been with Todd Graham, and he could build a name for himself in the eventual future.

California: Clancy Pendergast

The current defensive coordinator is another (likely) hot commodity for the Bears if Jeff Tedford cannot get over the hump.

That said, Tedford has had the longest tenure in the history of the conference, so while he may be coming up short every season of a BCS berth, the Bears may not have a better option at the end of the day. 

Colorado: Eric Bieniemy

Jon Embree went 3-10 in what most thought was the toughest schedule in America, and he certainly has been given support from the program with their recent move to the Pac-12.

Time will tell how fast this program is rising back to relevancy (four years left on Embree's contract).

Coaching for your alma mater certainly helps out Bieniemy in terms of knowing the program well, and he could get a real hard look if Ralphie is not running around all happy for the next four seasons.

Oregon: Mark Helfrich

Chip Kelly might get another contract extension from the Duck that will keep him in Eugene past the 2015 season.

However, Kelly may continue to get offers from several other professional and collegiate teams, in which he will have an offer that he cannot refuse. If that ever becomes the case, then the Ducks could look no further than another offensive guru in Mark Helfrich.

Oregon State: Danny Langsdorf

This young offensive coordinator could take over in less than two season for Mike Riley if they decide to buy out his contract.

However, what is it really going to take for Riley to stay in Corvallis? They definitely need to go bowling in the immediate future, and that has been much easier said than done (last bowl appearance was in 2009).

Stanford: Pep Hamilton

This offensive coordinator has stormed up the charts, and the former Howard University quarterback has the brains of a future head coach.

Spending most of his recent time in the NFL, Hamilton has quickly become the Cardinal despite being around the program for just two seasons.

Entering his second season as the OC, Hamilton will be turning 38 and be a reliable backup to David Shaw (39) whenever he decides to take his talents somewhere else.

UCLA: Butch Jones

The Bruins just landed Jim Mora, Jr., so this may not be happening for quite some time. However, UCLA better hope they avoid any eight-loss seasons during his tenure, or else the seat will start get hot again.

The last thing anybody at UCLA wants is more brutal years ahead. Offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone could eventually land at several schools if he were to decide to jump ship for more money and/or fame.

Butch Jones will love to actually get some more love on account he just posted a double-digit season with his Bearcats.

USC: Bryan Harsin

If he doesn’t stay at Texas forver, this Longhorn offensive coordinator could be on the move in the near future.

It really depends if Lane Kiffin gets an extension and just how far the Trojans can get next season.

If USC were to fall apart next season, then all of a sudden, Kiffin could be on the way out again.

However, the Trojans have as much firepower as any team in the nation, so it really could be a while before we have to worry about a new coach.

Utah: Sonny Dykes

This will never happen if Kyle Whittingham decides to turn the Utes into a legit national Pac-12 powerhouse, but most believe that he may get better offers in the near future.

Lousiana Tech isn’t going to be able to hold onto Dykes if he wins a few WAC titles, and a program like Utah would surely fall for him.

Washington: Justin Wilcox

The former Boise State and Tennessee defensive coordinator is replacing Nick Holt as the Huskies defensive coordinator, and the program can only hope that he improves their defense.

If there is progress made and then Steve Sarkisian struggles as the head coach, Wilcox could be the prime suspect.

Washington State: Brian Johnson

Mike just took the job he will likely get the Cougars bowling sooner than later. 

However, a new coach will eventually come in Pullman, and I just like the chances of former Utes quarterback and current offensive coordinator Brian Johnson to eventually be given an opportunity.

Arkansas State: Rhett Lashlee

An assistant graduate during the 2009 and 2010 seasons with Auburn has given Rhett Lashlee (current OC) an opportunity to develop as a coach under Gus Malzahn. 

Florida Atlantic: Brian Wright

Having solid success at Montana State and Youngstown State has enabled Brian Wright to get a crack at the FBS level.

Once again, Carl Pelini is another one of those guys that has not even coached one single game yet, so we may have to wait a while on how the program develops.

Florida International: Jim Leavitt

This could be a solid fit, even though Mario Cristobal is the guy until the Panthers completely fall off the map.

They were not even acknowledged as an FBS team before Cristobal came to save the day, but now, they need to be able to consistently appear in bowl games in the Sun Belt. 

Louisiana-Lafayette: Timothy Edwards

Former teammates with current head coach Mark Hudspeth at Delta State, Timothy Edwards has been a co-defensive coordinator at Florida A&M for two seasons. He is just another one of those underrated coaches that most are unaware of, but in time, he will get his due.

Louisiana-Monroe: Steve Farmer

The former Illinois State Redbird offensives coordinator has already had one tenure with the Warhawks (2004-2008), and most wouldn’t be shocked if he eventually took over for Todd Berry (9-15 through two seasons).

Middle Tennessee: Steve Ellis

Despite only being with the program for two seasons, Steve Ellis has been elevated to defensive coordinator.

Rick Stockstill has gone just 35-40 in six seasons, but coming off a 2-10 year is not exactly the moment a program is looking for. 

North Texas: Mike Canales

Already having served as a head coach for five games (2-3) during the 2010 season, North Texas may be in need of a new coach depending on the health of Dan McCartney.

He recently suffered a stroke, and he has coached just one season thus far. Canales is controlling the offense for a second season and has had a ton of experience as an OC and QB coach (Arizona, USF, NC State).

Troy: Kenny Edenfield

Larry Blakeney has been the most successful Trojans coach in its program history, but his 3-9 season was the worst year Troy has had since going 2-9 back in 1982. Some change could be on the way if another tough year is on the horizon.

Western Kentucky: Lance Guidry

Willie Taggert has only coached two seasons, and he gave the Hilltoppers their first ever winning season in the FBS at 7-5, though they were inexplicably left out of the postseason.

Taggert is the right guy for the job and may not be going anywhere for a long time, but his defensive coordinator, Lance Guidry, would be next in line if anything goes wrong.

Idaho: Mark Criner

Mark Criner went to Boise State and is now serving as the Vandals defensive coordinator. Robb Akey could be in his final season with Idaho, so there could be a few more names to pop up towards the end of next season. 

First, let us allow Idaho actually play the games since anything could happen in the WAC.

Louisiana Tech: Tony Franklin

The former Auburn offensive coordinator will be entering his third season with the Bulldogs, and he could be a solid choice to be the head ball coach, especially if Sonny Dykes wins a few more WAC titles.

New Mexico State: David Elson

David Elson is the current defensive coordinator, and he will be entering his first season as the Aggies defensive coordinator. DeWayne Walker, of course, is on the hot seat after posting just a 9-30 record through three seasons.

San Jose State: Nick Toth

Mike MacIntyre is 6-19 through two seasons, and you can only hope improvement is made in that typical magical third season.

The WAC isn't the toughest conference in America, but teams like Hawaii and Fresno State should both be improved as Louisiana Tech attempt to become a Top 25, and Nevada won't be too far behind.

Nick Toth is the current Fresno State defensive coordinator that came along with Tim DeRuyter, but he may be get looked upon for a few other jobs eventually. 

Utah State: Matt Wells

Through three seasons, Gary Anderson has gone just 15-22, but last season had to be considered fairly successful, albeit of all the close losses (including their bowl loss).

Matt Wells was a quarterbacks coach last season, but he has been upgraded as the offensive coordinator. If Anderson cannot put together a few more wins compared to last season, the Aggies may be looking for a new coach.

Army: Ian Shields

Rich Ellerson’s defensive coordinator at both Cal Poly and now Army could make Ian Shields a popular choice to eventually replace him.

Winning a few more games and appearing in another bowl game is a must in 2012, though.

Brigham Young: Brandon Doman

At just the age of 35, Brandon Doman is entering his second season as the offensive coordinator with a Cougars squad that is looking to gain some national recognition.

A former BYU signal-caller himself could get people on his side quickly, especially if the 2012 offense gets more explosive.

Bronco Mendenhall does have his contract expiring after 2013 season, though he may receive a few more years if they were to post another double-digit season or two.

Navy: Ivin Jasper

A former quarterback at Hawaii when Paul Johnson (GT Head coach) was his offensive coordinator, Ivan Jasper could be the main guy to replace (if ever) Ken Niumatalolo.

Jasper has already spent 11 seasons at Navy, with nine of them as a QB coach and three as the OC.

Notre Dame: Jon Gruden

The Irish were linked to Gruden when his days were coming to a conclusion at Oakland, but obviously, this may never happen.

Brian Kelly has a vital season ahead of him and could finally take the Irish back to a BCS bowl if he can find a consistent quarterback.

Still, the rumors will be circling if another 8-5 season is on the way. Urban Meyer was rumored before he took the job with the Buckeyes, but there are several other names, such as Skip Holtz or Chris Petersen, that would be a home-run hit.

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