As the College Football Playoffs approach, the stakes are higher than ever for the head coaches leading their teams into the postseason light. For some, a playoff berth is a sign of progress and validation of success, but for others, it’s a requirement. Anything short of a championship could mean the whole season was a failure. Here’s a look at which head coaches must win the most in this year’s CFP and why.
- Kirby Smart (Georgia)
The challenge: Sustaining dynasty
After leading Georgia to back-to-back national championships, Kirby has proven he can lead a powerhouse program to the promised land. However, maintaining a dynasty can carry more pressure than building one. The Bulldogs are chasing history as they aim for their third consecutive title. This was last achieved in the 1930s by Minnesota. Kirby must manage immense expectations while navigating the playoff layout. Anything less than a championship could be seen as a letdown for a fanbase now accustomed to dominating.
2. Kenny Dillingham (Arizona State)
The challenge: Proving a point
Kenny Dillingham and the Arizona State Sun Devils have been the underdogs all season. They come into the CFP at the number 4 seed and look to take on the winner of Texas and Clemson. Kenny and the Sun Devils proved a point in their Big 12 domination over No. 16 seed Iowa State, 45-19. Arizona State football has not really been respected ranked in these playoffs, as they were ranked the worst team in College Football rankings. But look to send a message in hopes of a national championship.
3. Ryan Day (Ohio State)
The challenge: Reclaiming the throne
Despite boasting an impressive record, Ryan Day finds himself under constant pressure in Columbus. Losing to Michigan in back-to-back seasons has raised doubts about his ability to compete in the rivalry– a necessary win for any Ohio State coach in the rivalry. While a close semifinal loss to Georgia last year brought him some goodwill, another playoff failure could heat his seat. For Day, winning a national championship isn’t just the goal– it’s a necessity to keep pace with Michigan and restore Ohio State’s status as the Big Ten’s leading program.
4. Dan Lanning (Oregon)
The challenge: Making a statement
Coming in at the number 1 seed in College Football, the Oregon Ducks are trying to end they’re season without a loss yet. Oregon’s powerhouse offense has led to a perfect 13-0 record leading into the CFP. Oregon took down Penn State in the Big Ten Championship 45-37 and is entering the CFP with a ton of momentum. Dan has found his way to be a finalist for Coach of the Year Award. The Ducks have gone from a Big Ten newcomer to a National Championship contender under Dan Lanning.
5. James Franklin (Penn State)
The challenge: Might be a sleeper
Although James Franklin and the Nittany Lions are rolling in as the 6th seed in the CFP this year, the heat has increased after the Big Ten Championship loss to Oregon. Pressure continues to mount on Franklin as a national analyst revealed the downside of Penn State’s bright playoff fate. Penn State only dropped one spot in the playoffs, typically sitting ahead of Ohio State and Notre Dame which is still the case. But, if Texas wins their game, they’re likely to face Arizona State up next. Afterward, there might be Oregon, Ohio State, or Tennessee in the semis. However, Penn State’s possible semifinal opponents can be Georgia, Notre Dame, or Indiana and believe it or not, that is not a cakewalk. So, James Franklin’s squad is not smooth sailing, as SMU’s explosive offense and tough defensive front give them that edge against Penn State. While, as far as they win this game, the semis can look a little less haunting. If these guys can manage their business and get the win, they pretty much got a chance at the national championship.
6. Mike Norvell (Florida State)
The challenge: Proving the revival is real
Florida State’s return to the national stage under Mike Norvell has been one of this season’s best stories. However, success creates expectation and the Seminoles fanbase is hungry for its first title since the Jameis Winston era. Norvell has the tools to compete with the nation’s best, but failing to capitalize on this year’s opportunity could make it harder to sustain momentum in a loaded ACC.
The Verdict:
While every head coach in CFP faces immense pressure on all stages, some stakes are undeniably higher. For established giants like Kirby Smart and Dan Lanning, it’s about adding another chapter to their legacies. For Sherrone Moore and Ryan Day, it’s about proving they can deliver on their program’s expectations. And for newer faces like Mike Norvell, it’s about seizing the moment and showing the world, they belong.
As the playoffs unfold, only one will emerge as a champion and hold that trophy, but for some the journey to get there is a pivotal moment as the destination to success and growth. With that being said, who will raise that trophy?
