College football teams cast their head coaches in the spotlight, but it is often the coordinators who get things done behind the scenes. Hiring or replacing a coordinator can lead to big or small changes that are vital for a team’s path.
These Offseason Coordinator Moves Could Redefine the 2025 College Football Race
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1. Ryan Grubb, Offensive Coordinator, Alabama
When Saban retired, Ryan Grubb stepped in as Alabama’s offensive coordinator after leading Washington’s and Fresno State’s fast-scoring units. Grubb’s familiarity with head coach Kalen DeBoer should smooth the transition.
2. Chip Lindsey, Offensive Coordinator, Michigan
He led the ACC in passing with Drake Maye but struggled without him.
3. Corey Hetherman, Defensive Coordinator, Miami
Miami has not relied on a strong defense for some time, but the heir of Corey Hetherman means they plan to be more aggressive. If Hetherman helps the defense play to its full potential, Miami could make it to the playoffs.
4. Gus Malzahn, Offensive Coordinator, Florida State
Despite a disappointing 2-10 record, Florida State added Gus Malzahn as its offensive coordinator. Malzahn’s fast-paced scheme could add the spark the offense is looking for. If this works, Florida State could go from irrelevance to a surprise contender.
5. Jason Beck, Offense Coordinator, Utah
He led the Mountain West in yards per game last season. Currently, he is bringing Devon Dampier back with him to Utah.
6. Chris Ash, Defensive Coordinator, Notre Dame
Chris Ash, formerly at Ohio State and Texas, will now join Notre Dame’s defense. Having Ash on the team should improve the Irish defense, leading to better outcomes against top-ranked opponents.
7. Matt Patricia, Defensive Coordinator, Ohio State
He wasn’t a great head coach with the Lions, but he was a two-time Super Bowl-winning defense coordinator with the Patriots.
KEEP READING: Analyst RJ Young Gives Bold Take on Ohio State DC Matt Patricia’s Impact vs. Texas in August
8. Tom Allen, Defense Coordinator, Clemson
Clemson made waves by hiring Tom Allen as their new defensive coordinator after luring him from Penn State. Allen’s reputation for strong defense could add the final ingredient that brings Clemson back to being a top team.
9. Jim Knowles, Defense Coordinator, Penn State
Penn State lost Tom Allen to Clemson but quickly responded by hiring Jim Knowles, fresh off leading Ohio State’s national championship-winning defense. If Knowles can build great defenses, Penn State may remain a top team.
The changes that happen among offensive and defensive coordinators will be equally important as those involving new head coaches this coming season. Keep your eyes on the booth and the sideline. The next X-factor in the playoff chase might just be holding a play sheet, not a headset.
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