Every college football season produces a new group of coaches to evaluate, but the 2022 coaching class might be unrivaled with its star power and scope.
There were new coaches at three of the sport's 10 winningest programs -- Oklahoma (Brent Venables), Notre Dame (Marcus Freeman) and USC (Lincoln Riley). Four others took over teams with multiple national titles (Miami's Mario Cristobal, LSU's Brian Kelly, Florida's Billy Napier, Washington's Kalen DeBoer). Other than the Big Ten, every Power 5 league had multiple new coaches, many at notable programs like Oregon (Dan Lanning) and TCU (Sonny Dykes).
Back in October, I awarded midseason grades for all 29 coaches, noting that each had time to enhance his mark or erode it before the end of the season. The time has come for final grades.
Most coaches remained on their midseason trajectory, although some changed course. Although TCU's Dykes, Washington's DeBoer and Troy's Jon Sumrall weren't the most celebrated hires of last year's carousel, they all did outstanding jobs in Year 1. There are actually more "A" grades here than normal, a testament to the strong starts for many first-year coaches, none better than Dykes, whose team will play for a national title next week. But not all marks are worth celebrating, especially in the state of Florida, as some coaches endured surprising struggles in their debut seasons.
As a reminder, coach grades are based largely on the state of the programs they inherited.
Below you'll find the coaches ordered from best to worst. In addition to the final grades, I've included a quick look at what's ahead for every coach after Year 1.
Jump to a grade:
A's | B's | C's | D's
Sonny Dykes, TCU: A
2022 record: 13-1 | TCU's 2021 record: 5-7
Previous job: SMU head coach
Midseason grade: A | Grade when hired: A-
I thought Dykes was a really good hire at TCU, a natural fit given his incredible Texas roots and success across the Metroplex at SMU. But he took over a program that had fallen off in Big 12 play, and replaced a Hall of Fame coach in Gary Patterson who has a statue in the shadows of Amon G. Carter Stadium. Few envisioned Dykes leading TCU to an undefeated regular season and the first CFP berth for any team in the state of Texas. The Horned Frogs continued their incredible story by upsetting Michigan in a CFP semifinal to advance to the national championship. Dykes rightfully swept the national coaching honors after overseeing a team that stood out both for its talent and its resiliency, repeatedly finding ways to shine in the second halves of games. He also put together an excellent staff, headlined by coordinators Garrett Riley (offense) and Joe Gillespie (defense). Riley won the Broyles Award as the nation's top assistant.
What comes next: TCU loses quarterback Max Duggan and other standouts from the CFP team but has reestablished itself as an annual Big 12 contender, especially as the league reshapes in the coming years. Much like at SMU, Dykes has made TCU an attractive transfer destination, especially for players from the state of Texas. TCU recently added four SEC transfers, including Alabama wide receiver JoJo Earle and offensive lineman Tommy Brockermeyer, a former top-five recruit. The program isn't short on resources, so retaining Dykes and his top assistants should be doable.
Jon Sumrall, Troy: A
2022 record: 12-2 | Troy's 2021 record: 5-7
Previous job: Kentucky co-defensive coordinator/inside LBs coach
Midseason grade: A | Grade when hired: A-
Sumrall had one of the most impressive debuts for a Group of 5 coach in recent years. He entered an increasingly competitive Sun Belt Conference, dropped his first league game on a Hail Mary at Appalachian State, and then proceeded to not lose again. Troy struggled to score points for much of the season, eclipsing 30 just once in its first nine contests against FBS opponents, and twice winning with only 10 points. But Sumrall's defense sparkled behind FBS all-time tackles leader Carlton Martial and end T.J. Jackson. The Trojans rose to No. 8 in points allowed, never allowing more than 28 after the Appalachian State loss. They set a team record with 12 wins, upsetting UTSA in the Duluth Trading Cure Bowl.
What comes next: After a three-year dip, Troy is back to competing annually for Sun Belt championships. Sumrall has created an incredible foundation on defense, and while the Trojans lose some key players, the unit projects well for Year 2. Troy's biggest challenge ultimately might be holding on to Sumrall, who has experience in the SEC (Kentucky, Ole Miss) and soon will be on the Power 5 radar.
Kalen DeBoer, Washington: A
2022 record: 11-2 | Washington's 2021 record: 4-8
Previous job: Fresno State head coach
Midseason grade: A- | Grade when hired: A-
Washington is in a completely different place than it was a year ago, mainly because of DeBoer and his staff. He reshaped a languishing offense, which went from 73rd in passing and 107th in scoring last season to first and eighth this fall. Indiana transfer quarterback Michael Penix Jr. blossomed under DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, becoming a fringe Heisman candidate and passing for 4,641 yards and 31 touchdowns. DeBoer beat rivals Oregon and Washington State, and set a team record for most victories in his first season as coach. He dramatically improved the culture around the program to the point where Penix and other standouts decided to return for 2023. Washington is undoubtedly a team to watch in the Pac-12 again.
What comes next: Washington should enter 2023 in the top 10 and poised to push for its first CFP appearance since 2016 (also the Pac-12's last entry). Penix is back as a Heisman contender, along with standout pass-rushers Bralen Trice and Zion Tupuola-Fetui. DeBoer must continue to make gains in recruiting and the portal, especially as the Pac-12 gets deeper, but he has Washington positioned well for the next few years.
Jim Mora, UConn: A
2022 record: 6-7 | UConn's 2021 record: 1-11
Previous job: UCLA head coach (2017 season)
Midseason grade: B | Grade when hired: B+
When midseason coaching grades went out, I didn't expect the strongest response to come from UConn fans. I heard you, Huskies, loud and clear, and admit I undervalued Mora's work in the first half. He continued his success down the stretch, guiding UConn to an upset of No. 19 Liberty, which got the team bowl eligible for the first time since 2015. In addition to Liberty, the Huskies took down eventual Mountain West champion Fresno State as well as Boston College -- UConn's first win in 15 tries against the Eagles. After a four-year hiatus, Mora showed no rust in his return to the college sideline, dramatically improving UConn's defense and injecting life into a program that had just 10 wins in the previous five seasons.
What comes next: The UConn job is still among the toughest in the FBS, but Mora has provided evidence of success right away. He must continue to develop quarterback Zion Turner and other young players, and build on the success of a defense that allowed just 19.9 points per game in the final eight contests. After a bowl loss to Marshall, Mora talked to the team about the season being "a baseline." The next step is UConn's first winning season since 2010.
Mike Elko, Duke: A
2022 record: 9-4 | Duke's 2021 record: 3-9
Previous job: Texas A&M defensive coordinator
Midseason grade: A- | Grade when hired: A
Elko's return to the ACC, where he spent 2014 to 2016 as Wake Forest's defensive coordinator, made a lot of sense. He didn't waste any time reviving Duke, which won only 10 games the previous three seasons combined. The Blue Devils posted their first winning record in ACC play (5-3) since 2014, which also marked their last nine-win season. Elko was the clear choice for ACC Coach of the Year. He's the first Duke coach to win at least eight games in his first season since Fred Goldsmith in 1984. Duke not only improved on both sides of the ball but competed in every game, never losing by more than eight points. The Blue Devils finished with a dominant bowl performance against UCF.
What comes next: The key at a program like Duke is stringing together solid seasons. Although Elko's predecessor David Cutcliffe did so from 2012 to 2018, Duke must be mindful of the challenges similar programs (Northwestern, Stanford, Vanderbilt) are enduring in the transfer portal/NIL era. Elko is in line for an enhanced contract, but he will also need the right support and administrative commitment to maintain the trajectory. While All-ACC defensive tackle DeWayne Carter returns, Duke must supplement in key areas.
Jerry Kill, New Mexico State: A
2022 record: 7-6 | New Mexico State's 2021 record: 2-10
Previous job: TCU assistant to head coach (interim head coach for final four games in 2021)
Midseason grade: C- | Grade when hired: B
Kill once again showed he's one of the best program rehabilitators. Like Mora, he came to a place that had essentially bottomed out, winning only seven games in the previous three full seasons. Some of Kill's coaching friends questioned why he would even want the NMSU job at this stage of his career. But after a 1-5 start, the Aggies' fortunes began to turn. They won five of their final six regular-season games and received an NCAA waiver to become bowl eligible after stunning Liberty 49-14, despite being a 24-point underdog. Kill then won his first bowl game, as New Mexico State outlasted Bowling Green in Detroit. Junior quarterback Diego Pavia emerged down the stretch, and veterans Chris Ojoh and Lazarus Williams led the way on defense.
What comes next: NMSU remains a really hard job, and there are no guarantees for success from year to year. But the move to Conference USA in 2023 will help from a structural standpoint. Kill has proved to the players what they can accomplish together, and there's good alignment in place with athletic director Mario Moccia. League transition can be tough, but there's a good chance New Mexico State is back in bowl position in 2023.
Jeff Tedford, Fresno State: A
2022 record: 10-4 | Fresno State's 2021 record: 10-3
Previous job: Fresno State head coach (2019, resigned because of health reasons)
Midseason grade: C- | Grade when hired: B-
I was generous with Tedford's midseason grade, as Fresno State had lost at UConn and been pummeled by Boise State. But star quarterback Jake Haener was sidelined, and if Fresno State could get him back, a turnaround certainly seemed possible. Not only did the Bulldogs steady themselves, but they won their final nine games, including a rematch with Boise State in the Mountain West title game. Tedford, who helped Fresno State go from one win to 10 in his first go-round as coach, oversaw the biggest in-season turnaround in FBS history. Haener was predictably excellent in his return from an ankle injury, and Fresno State allowed 16 points or fewer in its final four games and five of its final six, including a 29-6 bowl win over Washington State.
What comes next: Despite the tough start to Year 1, Tedford inherited a good team, including some players he had recruited during his first stint at Fresno State. He now must replace Haener at quarterback, as well as standouts such as defensive end David Perales, running back Jordan Mims and wide receivers Jalen Moreno-Cropper, Nikko Remigio and Zane Pope. But Fresno State has established a winning culture, thanks mainly to Tedford, reaching 10 victories four times in the past six seasons.
Lincoln Riley, USC: A-
2022 record: 11-3 | USC's 2021 record: 4-8
Previous job: Oklahoma head coach
Midseason grade: A | Grade when hired: A
Riley deserves a lot of credit for capitalizing on the transfer portal. He took a team that was noncompetitive for much of 2021 -- USC dropped eight games by 10 points or more -- and led it to the Pac-12 championship in his first season. Riley reminded everyone why he's the nation's top quarterback coach and Heisman Trophy whisperer, as Caleb Williams became his third Heisman winner. A transfer-laden offense was spectacular, scoring at least 30 points in 10 of the first 11 games. USC had the Pac-12's offensive and defensive players of the year in Williams and defensive end Tuli Tuipulotu, and populated the all-conference teams. The Trojans' loss in the Pac-12 title game stings but also reinforces how far they still have to go, especially on defense, an area that has dogged Riley at his first two coaching stops. USC's defensive meltdown continued in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, as it allowed 29.3 yards per pass and 9 yards per rush in a 46-45 loss to Tulane. But USC's overall program progress certainly accelerated in Year 1.
What comes next: The next step for USC is obvious, especially with Williams likely to move on to the NFL in 2024. Anything less than a CFP appearance in 2023 will be considered a big disappointment. Riley and his defensive staff must fortify a unit that can't be so takeaway reliant going forward. USC plays a tougher schedule in 2023 that includes Oregon, Washington and a trip to Notre Dame. But the expectations are clear: Riley last week said he would be disappointed if his first USC team didn't turn out to be his worst.
Joey McGuire, Texas Tech: A-
2022 record: 8-5 | Texas Tech's 2021 record: 7-6
Previous job: Baylor outside linebackers coach/associate head coach
Midseason grade: B+ | Grade when hired: B
Texas Tech wanted a coach who could connect better with its base -- and the state -- and got one in McGuire. But after he pushed all the right buttons during the offseason, there were still questions about how the longtime high school coach would fare at the helm of a Power 5 program. He delivered by navigating a tough schedule to record a signature win against Texas and notable victories against Houston and Oklahoma. Texas Tech dominated Ole Miss in its bowl game to finish with four straight wins and record its first eight-win season since 2013. McGuire was a huge hit with key people in and around the program, and Texas Tech has built momentum with donations and its NIL setup. Hours before the bowl game, Texas Tech announced a six-year, $26.6 million contract for McGuire, who met and then exceeded expectations for Year 1.
What comes next: There's genuine belief in McGuire and his plan around Lubbock. Quarterback Tyler Shough and more than 10 other seniors opted to return for the 2023 season. Texas Tech loses star defensive end Tyree Wilson, but McGuire has a good foundation with coordinators Tim DeRuyter (defense) and Zach Kittley (offense). The Red Raiders must start playing better on the road, where they had four of their five losses.
Brian Kelly, LSU: B+
2022 record: 10-4 | LSU's 2021 record: 6-7
Previous job: Notre Dame head coach
Midseason grade: B- | Grade when hired: A-
The view of Kelly has changed several times since his surprise hiring 13 months ago. But for all the talk about him being an odd/bad fit and a constant meme, Kelly reiterated why he's one of the nation's top coaches. He led LSU to a surprising SEC West division title, highlighted by a dramatic win against Alabama, the first at Tiger Stadium since 2010. The season wasn't totally smooth, as LSU stumbled out of the gate against Florida State, had a historically bad home loss to Tennessee and dropped the regular-season finale to a bad Texas A&M squad. But LSU had more bright spots than blotches, as Jayden Daniels became an effective dual-threat quarterback and freshman Harold Perkins Jr. emerged as a defensive star.
What comes next: Kelly came to LSU to win national championships, and the team must get closer to competing at that level in Year 2. The Tigers return a formidable roster, including Daniels, Perkins and receiver Malik Nabers. LSU secured a group of potential difference-makers in the transfer portal, including Texas A&M cornerback Denver Harris. Greater consistency is needed, starting in the opener against FSU in Orlando.
Dan Lanning, Oregon: B+
2022 record: 10-3 | Oregon's 2021 record: 10-4
Previous job: Georgia defensive coordinator
Midseason grade: B+ | Grade when hired: B
Oregon is generally getting what it wants out of the Lanning hire, especially on the recruiting trail, which I'll get to below. On the field, his results were mixed in Year 1. Oregon played very well following its season-opening loss to Georgia, winning eight straight games, most in dominant fashion. But the Ducks twice lost down the stretch, against rivals Washington and Oregon State, and missed the Pac-12 championship game despite having arguably the league's most talented roster. There were clear positives, namely quarterback Bo Nix's emergence, as he led an offense that eclipsed 40 points throughout the eight-game win streak. Nix showed his heroics in Oregon's come-from-behind bowl win over North Carolina. But Oregon was positioned to do more down the stretch and fell a bit short.
What comes next: The CFP is a realistic goal in Lanning's second season, as Nix and others return to Eugene. Oregon wanted to maintain its recruiting momentum from the Mario Cristobal era and has done so with Lanning, who celebrated an excellent national signing day push with a victory cigar. Lanning's impact on the defense, both in personnel and performance, will be an area to watch in Years 2 and 3, as Oregon had mixed results in the second half of this season.
Clay Helton, Georgia Southern: B-
2022 record: 6-7 | Georgia Southern's 2021 record: 3-9
Previous job: USC head coach
Midseason grade: A- | Grade when hired: B
During much of Helton's tenure at USC, he was pegged as being a better fit for a Group of 5 job closer to his roots. He delivered several highlights in his first year at Georgia Southern, recording wins against Nebraska, James Madison and Appalachian State. The Eagles had four losses by eight points or fewer, and had some inconsistency on offense despite prolific quarterback Kyle Vantrease (4,253 pass yards, 27 touchdowns) and a passing game that ranks third nationally. The second half of the season wasn't as encouraging as the first, but Helton got Georgia Southern to a bowl game in Year 1 and established a nice foundation.
What comes next: Georgia Southern must show it can win on a steadier basis to start contending in the Sun Belt under Helton. The team must replace Vantrease and other key veterans, and start integrating more of Helton's recruits and transfers. Helton must get more from an offense that seemingly didn't capitalize as much as it should have with a quarterback like Vantrease.
Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame: B-
2022 record: 9-4 | Notre Dame's 2021 record: 11-2
Previous job: Notre Dame defensive coordinator
Midseason grade: D+ | Grade when hired: A-
Even amid the excitement of Freeman's promotion to head coach, there was an understanding he would need some time to settle in. Notre Dame is a distinctly challenging job, especially for a first-time head coach. "Until you're making those timeout decisions and fourth-and-1 calls and critical game strategy calls, you don't know," Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick told me after hiring Freeman. "There's got to be a learning curve." There certainly was. Freeman became the first Notre Dame coach to start 0-3 (0-2 this year). Notre Dame could have folded after the home loss to Marshall, or an even worse home setback to Stanford on Oct. 15. But the Irish responded with five straight wins, highlighted by a 35-14 stomping of undefeated Clemson. Freeman avoided another bowl loss as Notre Dame overcame a 21-7 deficit to beat South Carolina 45-38.
What comes next: Four-loss seasons are never acceptable at Notre Dame, and Freeman must produce a more nationally competitive team in Year 2. His first full recruiting class took several hits before signing day but still finished ranked No. 6 by ESPN. Notre Dame's passing game could get a transfer boost from Wake Forest quarterback Sam Hartman but must account for star tight end Michael Mayer's exit.
Jake Dickert, Washington State: B-
2022 record: 7-6 | Washington State's 2021 record: 7-6 (3-3 under Dickert)
Previous job: Washington State defensive coordinator (later interim head coach)
Midseason grade: B- | Grade when hired: B+
Dickert got Washington State to a bowl game in his first full season as coach. He has prevented a potential drop-off stemming from the bumpy Nick Rolovich coaching transition, which certainly counts in his favor. But Washington State's wins don't look too impressive outside of a road triumph at Wisconsin. The Cougars couldn't beat a depleted Utah team on their home field, and lost the Apple Cup to Washington, which seems to have regained the edge in the state. The defense remained a bright spot under Dickert, who first came to WSU as defensive coordinator. But the offense struggled against better competition in the second half. The big what-if is the Oregon game, as Washington State likely would have been 5-0 heading to USC if it had held on against the Ducks.
What comes next: An important offseason awaits Dickert, who is replacing both of his primary coordinators. He made a bold hire on offense with Ben Arbuckle, the 27-year-old from Western Kentucky who will be the youngest coordinator in the Power 5. WSU loses first-team All-Pac-12 linebacker Daiyan Henley, but edge rusher Brennan Jackson and others will return for a defense that has looked good since Dickert arrived. The offense is a bigger priority, given WSU's history on that side of the ball and the league only getting tougher.
Rhett Lashlee, SMU: C+
2022 record: 7-6 | SMU's 2021 record: 8-4
Previous job: Miami offensive coordinator
Midseason grade: C- | Grade when hired: A-
Lashlee avoided a significant drop-off in Year 1, which was important after SMU's rise under predecessor Sonny Dykes. But he didn't really push things forward, despite a talented roster that included veteran quarterback Tanner Mordecai, prolific wide receiver Rashee Rice and others. After a three-game slide early on, Lashlee steadied things in the second half as the Mustangs won five of their final seven games. They had a record-setting performance against Houston and outlasted several opponents to get bowl eligible for the fourth consecutive season. But the Mustangs ultimately lost to the three teams ahead of them in the AAC standings. SMU lacked a true signature win and finished 119th nationally in points allowed.
What comes next: SMU hired Lashlee in large part to maintain the trajectory that Dykes started. Year 2 is all about competing for the AAC title, especially with the league seemingly softening up because of realignment. Lashlee must reload on offense with Mordecai, Rice and others moving on. A leaky defense also must take a significant step.
Mike MacIntyre, Florida International: C-
2022 record: 4-8 | FIU's 2021 record: 1-11
Previous job: Memphis defensive coordinator
Midseason grade: D+ | Grade when hired: B-
MacIntyre has rebuilt programs before and showed he still knows what it takes after inheriting a very tough situation at FIU. The team recorded consecutive wins for the first time since 2019 and was 4-4 heading into the final third of the schedule. Things got pretty ugly from that point, as FIU dropped three straight games by a combined score of 144-27 before pushing Middle Tennessee in the season finale. FIU's offense struggled most of the season, averaging just 18.7 points and 4.7 yards per play. Lopsided losses were a problem, but FIU had dropped 18 of 19 games before MacIntyre's arrival and improved its win total by three.
What comes next: FIU reiterated its belief in MacIntyre last month by awarding him a contract extension through the 2027 season. His next step is building a more consistently competitive team, and making upgrades on offense through recruiting and the portal. FIU's staff flipped several key recruits in its first full class and has established a nice niche in the Miami market.
Timmy Chang, Hawai'i: C-
2022 record: 3-10 | Hawai'i's 2021 record: 6-7
Previous job: Colorado State wide receivers coach
Midseason grade: C | Grade when hired: B
Like many first-year coaches, especially at the Group of 5 level, Chang entered a situation where he wasn't set up to succeed right away. His most pressing priority wasn't to build on a six-win season, but restore a more positive culture around the program, which he has done. Hawai'i lost its first three games by a combined score of 168-37, and dropped five of its first six contests. Although the Rainbow Warriors went 1-6 down the stretch, they competed much better in most of their contests, dropping four by seven points or fewer. The team's first 10-loss season since 2015 is certainly not worth celebrating, nor is it surprising. But Chang got settled as a coach and created a much-needed positive vibe around the program after the Todd Graham era.
What comes next: Chang signed his first recruiting class last month, which included several transfers from Power 5 programs. The former NCAA record-setting Hawai'i quarterback now should have a chance to put more of his own imprint on an offense that averaged only 19.8 points and 205.5 passing yards per game. Although the Mountain West has trended more toward defense in recent years, Hawai'i's edge must remain a prolific offense.
Michael Desormeaux, Louisiana: C-
2022 record: 6-7 | Louisiana's 2021 record: 13-1
Previous job: Louisiana co-offensive coordinator/tight ends coach
Midseason grade: C | Grade when hired: B
A drop-off was expected after coach Billy Napier's departure, a historic stretch for the program and some key personnel departures on both sides of the ball. Louisiana promoted Desormeaux, a first-time head coach with deep roots inside the program, to maintain some continuity and got mixed results in Year 1. The defense became a bright spot, as Louisiana allowed more than 23 points only three times. The team had solid wins over Marshall and Georgia Southern, and dropped four games by seven points or fewer, including to Houston in the bowl game. An inconsistent offense doomed the Ragin' Cajuns at times, as they failed to reach 200 passing yards in six games.
What comes next: The transition year is over and Desormeaux will need to generate better results in Year 2. Louisiana will enter 2023 with multiple experienced quarterbacks, and Desormeaux should continue to prioritize a run game that performed well in the second half of the season. The defense will miss all-conference defenders Eric Garror, Zi'Yon Hill-Green and others but returns a nice core. Louisiana should be a Sun Belt contender in 2023.
Stan Drayton, Temple: C-
2022 record: 3-9 | Temple's 2021 record: 3-9
Previous job: Texas running backs coach/associate head coach
Midseason grade: C- | Grade when hired: B-
Temple won only one of its final eight games and finished with just two victories against FBS opponents (UMass and South Florida). But the team started to compete better in AAC play, pushing East Carolina and Houston and showing a much-needed spark on offense. Freshman quarterback E.J. Warner finished with 3,028 passing yards, 18 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, while several wide receivers and tight ends emerged in the passing game. Temple's defense showed some promise, with outside linebacker Layton Jordan emerging as a standout (9 sacks, 18.5 tackles for loss). Drayton didn't inherit a great situation but showed some progress.
What comes next: Drayton signed his first full recruiting class and will have some key returning players to build around, namely Warner, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Kurt Warner. Temple needs greater consistency along the offensive line and production in the run game after averaging just 84.2 yards per game. The defense loses standout end Darian Varner but still should be solid. Bowl eligibility is a reasonable expectation for Drayton in Year 2.
Joe Moorhead, Akron: C-
2022 record: 2-10 | Akron's 2021 record: 2-10
Previous job: Oregon offensive coordinator
Midseason grade: D+ | Grade when hired: A
Akron didn't improve its record in Year 1 under Moorhead, but the team showed much more promise in the second half of the season. The Zips avoided a blowout loss in their final six games and recorded a signature win, pummeling defending MAC champion Northern Illinois 44-12 on the road. Then, they nearly kept Buffalo out of a bowl game before falling 23-22 after allowing a late touchdown. Akron dropped its first two games against FBS opponents by more than 50 points but became more cohesive on both sides of the ball. The Zips' offense still has some ground to cover to reflect Moorhead's typical units, but third-team all-league quarterback DJ Irons showed development, completing 66.8% of his passes. Akron also had three receivers eclipse 60 receptions and 750 receiving yards.
What comes next: The Moorhead hire should start to pay off for Akron in Year 2, especially in a league like the MAC where every team is upwardly mobile. Irons and the receiving corps provide a nice foundation, although the Zips must find more options in the run game. They also must upgrade a defense that didn't generate enough pressure, and get better at finishing off close games.
Brent Venables, Oklahoma: D+
2022 record: 6-7 | Oklahoma's 2021 record: 11-2
Previous job: Clemson defensive coordinator
Midseason grade: D+ | Grade when hired: B+
The departures of coach Lincoln Riley and quarterback Caleb Williams seemed likely to sting Oklahoma, but few envisioned the Sooners finishing below .500 for the first time since 1998, the year before Bob Stoops arrived as coach. Venables can be a great coach for OU, but his first season didn't provide much optimism. The Sooners never got on track defensively, especially against the pass, and allowed 30 points per game and 5.8 yards per play. They were more competitive throughout the second half of the season but dropped four of their final five games, all by three points or fewer. Oklahoma had some bright spots, winning Bedlam and outlasting Kansas at home. But Venables' long-awaited debut as a head coach couldn't have gone much worse, given the type of program he inherited. Oklahoma suffered its first three-game losing streak since 1998 and its worst shutout loss in team history, while allowing its highest points total ever to rival Texas.
What comes next: Venables flexed his recruiting muscle with his first full class, ranked No. 4 overall by ESPN, flipping five-star safety Peyton Bowen and signing quarterback Jackson Arnold, ESPN's No. 8 overall recruit. Oklahoma also bolstered its defense through the transfer portal with Indiana's Dasan McCullough, Oklahoma State's Trace Ford and others. Venables' work with the defense in Year 2 will be critical, as the team has enough returning talent on offense, especially at running back.
Jay Norvell, Colorado State: D+
2022 record: 3-9 | CSU's 2021 record: 3-9
Previous job: Nevada head coach
Midseason grade: D | Grade when hired: A
Colorado State seemingly scored a huge win in getting Norvell to move within the league to a program that hadn't achieved nearly as much consistency as his previous stop (Nevada). The hire could work out, but Year 1 was rough and produced the same record as 2021. Norvell's offense surprisingly sputtered, as the Rams finished 129th nationally in scoring (13.2 PPG) and 106th in passing (196.8 YPG). But the defense stepped up, especially in league play, as CSU won three times and held seven of eight opponents to 28 points or fewer and five opponents to 17 points or fewer. The Rams learned to win differently and fittingly ended the season with a 17-0 shutout of New Mexico.
What comes next: Norvell established a nice foundation on defense but must get the offense up to his standard to compete better in the Mountain West next fall. His roster overhaul has already begun with the signing of 34 new players, including notable groups at both tight end and offensive line. The passing game should take a significant jump in Year 2. At minimum, CSU should expect its first bowl appearance since 2017.
Billy Napier, Florida: D+
2022 record: 6-7 | Florida's 2021 record: 6-7
Previous job: Louisiana head coach
Midseason grade: C- | Grade when hired: A-
After a season-opening win against eventual Pac-12 champion Utah, Florida had a very uneven first season under Napier. The Utah win preceded a home loss to Kentucky. Florida had its best overall performance against South Carolina on Nov. 12 but ended the regular season with consecutive seven-point defeats to Vanderbilt and Florida State. The Gators no-showed against Oregon State in their bowl game, needing a late field goal to preserve their record streak of 436 games without being shut out. The team ended the season with questions on both sides of the ball, especially a defense that allowed nearly 29 points per game and nearly 6 yards per play. Young running backs Montrell Johnson Jr. and Trevor Etienne provided an encouraging spark, combining for 1,560 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns.
What comes next: Although Napier is responsible for only one of Florida's consecutive 6-7 seasons, he faces some pressure in Year 2. Florida not only must catch up to Georgia but also Tennessee and potentially others in an improving SEC East. Anthony Richardson's NFL departure creates urgency at quarterback, and Florida could turn to decorated incoming freshman Jaden Rashada to find a spark.
Sonny Cumbie, Louisiana Tech: D
2022 record: 3-9 | Louisiana Tech's 2021 record: 3-9
Previous job: Texas Tech offensive coordinator (interim head coach for final five games)
Midseason grade: C- | Grade when hired: B+
Louisiana Tech surprised many last year when it fired Skip Holtz, who consistently made (and won) bowl games and slipped recordwise only at the very end. The school hired Cumbie to provide new energy and a spark, specifically on offense, but didn't see the results in Year 1. The Bulldogs dropped six of their final seven contests. They endured blowout losses against Conference USA's best teams but pushed several others, losing four games by 10 points or fewer. The offense performed decently, averaging 29 points with 25 passing touchdowns, but turnovers were an issue as Louisiana Tech went through several quarterbacks. The defense had a harder time settling in, allowing 6.1 yards per carry with 34 rushing touchdowns. Only Colorado allowed more rushing yards per game than the Bulldogs (243.2).
What comes next: Cumbie signed his first full recruiting class last month, a mix of in-state players and those from his home state of Texas. The defense must be the focus for Year 2, as Louisiana Tech won't start winning until it can defend the run. The team also lost top wide receiver Tre Harris to the portal and must get more reliable play from its quarterbacks in 2023.
Brent Pry, Virginia Tech: D
2022 record: 3-8 | Virginia Tech's 2021 record: 6-7
Previous job: Penn State defensive coordinator
Midseason grade: D | Grade when hired: B+
Pry inherited a challenging roster situation and a program trending in the wrong direction, but didn't show much tangible progress during his first season as head coach in Blacksburg. Virginia Tech recorded its worst record since 1992, finishing tied for last in the ACC Coastal Division and averaging only 19.3 points per game. The Hokies were more competitive at times during the second half of the season, dropping games to Miami, NC State and Georgia Tech by a total of eight points. There were some bright spots on defense, but Virginia Tech still finished with only two wins against FBS opponents. The team never reached the 30-point mark. A first-time head coach with young coordinators, Pry endured some predictable growing pains.
What comes next: Pry kept his first full recruiting class mostly intact while emphasizing in-state prospects. He's not making major staff changes but clearly needs more from the offense to compete in 2023. Virginia Tech added Baylor quarterback transfer Kyron Drones, who should compete to start, but needs other playmakers to emerge in all three phases.
Mario Cristobal, Miami: D-
2022 record: 5-7 | Miami's 2021 record: 7-5
Previous job: Oregon head coach
Midseason grade: D+ | Grade when hired: A
Miami's hire of Cristobal and its unprecedented investment in the program were all about the long game. There are plenty of promising signs ahead for the U, but Cristobal's debut fell well short of expectations. The Hurricanes averaged just 23.6 points and 128.1 rush yards per game, failing to eclipse 21 points in more than half of their games. There was no shortage of embarrassing moments for Cristobal's team, especially on its home field, where the Canes fell 45-31 to Middle Tennessee, 45-21 to Duke and 45-3 to rival Florida State. Miami simply didn't compete very well for Cristobal, dropping its last two games by a combined score of 82-26 to drop out of bowl contention. Cristobal didn't inherit the best situation but still should have at least finished .500 in a very navigable ACC. Although Miami's talent level isn't where it will be in the future, several coaches mentioned Hurricanes players as being among the best in the ACC.
What comes next: Cristobal's celebrated recruiting prowess showed in his first full class at Miami, which surged to No. 3 in ESPN's rankings on signing day. He will have more of his own players in key roles on both sides of the ball next season, which should lead to more explosiveness and consistency. Miami hired Cristobal to start winning ACC championships, and the team must take a significant jump in Year 2 with a greater talent base.
Ken Wilson, Nevada: D-
2022 record: 2-10 | Nevada's 2021 record: 8-5
Previous job: Oregon co-defensive coordinator/inside linebackers coach
Midseason grade: D+ | Grade when hired: B
A promising start soon turned sour for Wilson, who dropped the final 10 games of his debut season. Nevada went winless in league play for the first time in the FBS and suffered its first 10-loss season since 2000, dropping seven games by 14 points or more. The team had a few competitive performances down the stretch, but Wilson rode the learning curve of a first-time FBS head coach. Nevada averaged only 18.8 points, its lowest total since 2000, and just 185.4 passing yards and 5.6 yards per pass attempt. Although the offense lost a lot of production from the 2021 team, Nevada historically has been able to generate yards and points.
What comes next: Wilson has to get the offense right, starting at quarterback, where Shane Illingworth, Colorado transfer Brendon Lewis and others will compete. He brought in veteran offensive line coach Angus McClure to work with a group that struggled to protect this season. Nevada must bolster its defensive line. Wilson's ties to the program helped him land the job, but he must show real progress in Year 2, especially with a new athletic director (Stephanie Rempe) overseeing the program.
Don Brown, UMass: D-
2022 record: 1-11 | UMass' 2021 record: 1-11
Previous job: Arizona defensive coordinator
Midseason grade: D | Grade when hired: A-
I nearly gave an "F" here, as UMass didn't win a single game against an FBS opponent and had only two losses by single digits. But the program had fallen so far before Brown arrived -- two wins in the previous three seasons -- that a major boost in the overall record likely wasn't realistic in Year 1. Still, UMass should have expected more progress, especially from a coach who knows the program and the area as well as Brown does. The Minutemen finished last nationally in scoring (12.5 PPG) and 129th in total offense (265.8 YPG). As expected, Brown's defense held up better, but UMass rarely gave itself any chance to win games.
What comes next: Brown signed only six high school players during the December signing period, as he wants to emphasize the portal to get the team more experienced in several spots. Offense is the priority as UMass must establish a respectable passing attack after recording only four passing touchdowns in 2022. Brown, 67, took the UMass job to be closer to his family and to get the program on better footing before retirement. A jump is needed in Year 2.
Tony Elliott, Virginia: No grade
2022 record: 3-7 | Virginia's 2021 record: 6-6
Previous job: Clemson offensive coordinator
Midseason grade: D | Grade when hired: A-
On the field, the Cavaliers struggled under Elliott. Despite inheriting a record-setting quarterback-wide receiver combination in Brennan Armstrong and Dontayvion Wicks, Elliott and his staff couldn't get the offense on track. The Cavaliers never scored more than 28 points against an FBS opponent. Virginia had only two wins over FBS foes, although it dropped three ACC contests by a combined seven points. Armstrong's struggles peaked against Pitt in what turned out to be Virginia's final game, as his first two passes were intercepted and returned for touchdowns. Virginia finished 126th nationally in scoring (17 PPG), a year after ranking 21st. But those numbers became secondary after the on-campus shooting deaths of three players on Nov. 13, allegedly at the hand of a former player. And in Elliott's most challenging and important task -- healing a team devastated by tragedy -- he showed remarkable leadership and compassion.
What comes next: Elliott's job is uniquely challenging after the tragedy, as the team tries to heal and reset for 2023. He brought in his first full recruiting class, as Virginia went heavy with wide receivers and defensive linemen. Elliott also must address the quarterback spot, as Armstrong entered the transfer portal, and several players, including Monmouth transfer Tony Muskett, are set to compete.