College football coaching seats are heating up, and some big names are feeling the burn. The recent firing of James Franklin at Penn State, despite a massive buyout, has sent shockwaves through the sport, proving that no coach is truly safe. But who else is on the hot seat? Let’s dive into our midseason temperature check across the FBS, where the pressure is mounting and careers hang in the balance.
ACC: Mike Norvell, Florida State
Remember when Florida State was a powerhouse? Two years ago, they went undefeated but were snubbed from the College Football Playoff. Fast forward to today, and the Seminoles are struggling. After a promising start with a win over No. 8 Alabama, they’ve dropped three straight close games to Virginia, Miami, and Pitt. But here’s where it gets controversial: Norvell’s buyout is over $50 million, and FSU doesn’t have the deep pockets of Penn State. Can they afford to let him go? With no ranked teams left on the schedule, a 7-5 finish seems possible, but will it be enough to silence the critics? Temperature check: Getting warmer.
Big Ten: Luke Fickell, Wisconsin
Wisconsin fans are in agony. After a decent start, the Badgers have lost four straight, including a humiliating 37-0 shutout to Iowa at home—their first in 45 years. Fickell, once celebrated at Cincinnati, is now 15-17 in Madison, a far cry from his predecessor’s success. And this is the part most people miss: Wisconsin’s remaining schedule is brutal, with games against No. 1 Ohio State, No. 8 Oregon, and No. 3 Indiana. His $28 million buyout might not save him this time. Temperature check: White hot.
SEC: Hugh Freeze, Auburn
Hugh Freeze’s tenure at Auburn has been a rollercoaster of close losses. After two losing seasons, he’s now on a three-game skid, all against ranked opponents. Auburn could’ve—should’ve—won those games, but they didn’t. Under Freeze, the Tigers are 2-8 in one-possession games and 1-11 against ranked teams. Bold question: Is Freeze the right fit for Auburn? The remaining schedule isn’t daunting, but even a 7-5 finish might not save his job. Temperature check: Caliente.
SEC: Billy Napier, Florida
Billy Napier’s four years at Florida have been underwhelming, with a 21-23 record. Last year’s late-season surge saved his job, but this year’s 2-4 start has fans restless. But here’s the twist: Athletic director Scott Stricklin’s fate isn’t as tied to Napier as it once was, thanks to the men’s basketball team’s national title. Can Napier turn things around, or is his time running out? Temperature check: Scalding.
Conference USA: Derek Mason, Middle Tennessee
After a 3-9 debut, Mason’s Blue Raiders are 1-5 this season, including a blowout loss to FCS Austin Peay. While it’s early in his tenure, he needs wins—fast. A game against winless Sam Houston on Nov. 22 could be a lifeline. Temperature check: Warm.
Conference USA: Sonny Cumbie, Louisiana Tech
Cumbie’s slow rebuild at Louisiana Tech hit a snag with a 35-7 loss to Kennesaw State. However, with winnable games against Sam Houston and Liberty, a six-win season is within reach. Temperature check: Cooling down.
MAC: Joe Moorhead, Akron
Akron is a tough job, and Moorhead’s 10-33 record in four years reflects that. While he’s a solid offensive mind, the Zips’ 2-5 start isn’t helping his case. Thought-provoking question: Could a Power 4 program poach him as an offensive coordinator? With his son heading to college soon, the timing for a change might be perfect. Temperature check: Warm.
Mountain West: Jay Norvell, Colorado State
Jay Norvell has steadily improved Colorado State, going from three wins to eight last season. However, a recent three-game losing streak has raised concerns. Last week’s blowout win over Fresno State was a step in the right direction, but upcoming games against tough opponents will test his progress. Temperature check: A little warm.
Final Thought: Coaching is a high-stakes game, and these leaders are feeling the heat. Who will survive, and who will be shown the door? What do you think? Are these coaches getting a fair shake, or is it time for a change? Let us know in the comments!
