Vanderbilt, Oregon State make coaching decisions as high-profile...

Oregon State University has appointed JaMarcus Shephard, Alabama's co-offensive coordinator, as its new head football coach. Shephard, who also served as Alabama's assistant head coach and wide receivers coach, has signed a five-year contract with Oregon State. He replaces Trent Bray, who was dismissed in October after achieving a 5-14 record in his second season. Oregon State is currently 2-9 and is managing financial challenges following the Pac-12's fragmentation.

In another development, Vanderbilt University has extended the contract of head coach Clark Lea for six years, amid interest from other programs. Lea, who took over in 2021, has led Vanderbilt to a historic season and a No. 14 national ranking. The Commodores are in contention for the College Football Playoff, needing additional wins and favorable outcomes in other games to secure a spot. This extension includes a significant salary increase and additional resources to maintain the program's upward trajectory. Vanderbilt recently achieved a milestone by