CFP or bust? Realistic expectations for first-year college football coaches

The 2026 college football coaching carousel has seen significant changes, with 17 Power Four programs appointing new head coaches. These hires are under intense pressure to produce immediate results due to lucrative contracts and significant NIL funding. Lane Kiffin at LSU and his successor Pete Golding at Ole Miss are particularly expected to deliver, having secured the top two transfer portal classes. Matt Campbell at Penn State and Kyle Whittingham at Michigan are tasked with maintaining their programs' status as championship contenders. James Franklin at Virginia Tech faces high expectations to capitalize on the school’s strong investment in its football program.