Big 12 Coaches on the Hot Seat Ahead of 2026
The Big 12 enters the 2026 season with a clear hierarchy of job security among its head coaches, a hierarchy that reflects both performance and institutional loyalty. Rankings based on employment stability place a handful of veteran leaders at the top of the safety ladder, while a dozen others find themselves under intense scrutiny.
Kalani Sitake turned down the Penn State job to stay at BYU, his alma mater, signaling a commitment that the Cougars hope will translate into continued stability. Similarly, Kenny Dillingham rebuffed a Big Ten giant to return to Arizona State, his alma mater, reinforcing the narrative that homegrown leadership can anchor a program.
Collin Klein, a former K-State star quarterback, returned to his alma mater as head coach, bringing a player‑first mindset that the Wildcats believe will sustain their recent upward trajectory. Eric Morris, meanwhile, has matched the combined Big 12 win total of Mike Gundy and Doug Meacham over the past two seasons, a statistic that has bolstered confidence in his long‑term prospects.
Jimmy Rogers captured an FCS national championship at South Dakota State in 2023, his first season as a head coach, and the Jackrabbits’ momentum carried into his second year with a strong recruiting class. Morgan Scalley, who has served on Utah’s staff since 2007, was elevated to head coach after Kyle Whittingham stepped aside, inheriting a program that has become a model of consistency in the Mountain West.
Willie Fritz led Houston to a 10‑3 mark last season after enduring a 4‑8 debut, while Brent Brennan turned Arizona’s fortunes around from a 4‑8 record in 2024 to a 9‑4 finish in 2025, illustrating how quickly a coach can reshape expectations. Lance Leipold has significantly improved Kansas’ win record compared to the five seasons before his tenure, and Sonny Dykes, after guiding TCU to the national championship game four years ago, has rebounded with back‑to‑back nine‑win seasons.
Deion Sanders’ presence keeps Colorado football relevant, but his health has been a concern, adding a layer of uncertainty to the Buffaloes’ outlook. Scott Satterfield has improved Cincinnati’s Big 12 win record from one in 2023 to five in 2025, yet the Bearcats still face questions about sustained growth. Scott Frost’s teams have not played in a bowl game in his last six seasons as a head coach, placing him among those feeling the heat.
Rich Rodriguez’s second stint at West Virginia has been disappointing, with a 2‑7 record in the Big 12, while Dave Aranda’s Baylor team has been sub‑.500 since their 12‑2 season in 2021, fueling speculation about a possible replacement. The pressure on these coaches underscores a broader theme: success in the Big 12 is as much about fitting the institutional culture as it is about on‑field results.
As the conference prepares for the 2026 campaign, the mix of alumni loyalty, proven turnaround artists and coaches on the brink creates a dynamic environment where job security is both a reward and a risk, shaping the narrative for every program.