College Football Coaches Who Won the Offseason: Teams Poised to Rise in 2025
The 2025 college football offseason may not show up in the standings, but it has clearly revealed which coaches are strategizing effectively while others are left scrambling. With recruiting triumphs, successful additions from the transfer portal, retention of critical players, and key hires shaping programs, many coaches are looking to bounce back from disappointing seasons, while others aim to consolidate their successes. So, who are the standout coaches this offseason? Which teams are set to rebound, and which are gearing up to remain at the top? Our FOX Sports college football writers delve into these questions below.
1. Which college football coach has won the offseason and why?
Laken Litman: James Franklin.
Penn State head coach James Franklin has expertly navigated a chaotic player transfer environment, successfully maintaining a roster capable of competing for a national championship. With quarterback Drew Allar returning for a second season under offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, the Nittany Lions boast a formidable offense. Additionally, the running back duo of Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton—who considered leaving for the NFL—have chosen to stay at Happy Valley.
On the defensive side, Franklin nabbed his rival’s defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, who played a pivotal role in Ohio State’s recent national championship triumph. The Nittany Lions have struggled against the Buckeyes, with a 1-9 record in the last decade, but with Knowles on board, they now have a better chance heading into their matchup on November 1 in Columbus.
Penn State came painfully close to a national title last year, but thanks to Franklin’s offseason initiatives, his program is in an even better position to succeed this year.
RJ Young: Curt Cignetti.
Indiana’s head coach Curt Cignetti claimed the offseason like no other with his fierce and confident approach. Expectations are high for Indiana as they return to winning form. Cignetti has achieved at least 11 wins in four of the last six seasons at both Indiana and James Madison, showcasing his ability to build a powerhouse. With the arrival of Fernando Mendoza and returning eight starters from last year’s 11-win team, Cignetti’s squad looks set to embark on another thrilling campaign.
Michael Cohen: Joey McGuire.
Texas Tech emerged as the talk of the town during the Big 12 Media Days despite ending last season with an 8-5 record. This can primarily be attributed to significant financial backing from billionaire booster Cody Campbell, who oversees the Matador Club, the school’s NIL collective. McGuire and his team have secured the second-best transfer portal class in the nation, investing over $10 million to attract talent, including several top 65 prospects all funded by Campbell’s generous contributions. With the right players in place, it’s now McGuire’s challenge to lead this revamped roster to success.
2. grasses in the philippines and their scientific names with pictures Which of last year’s disappointing teams is most likely to bounce back in 2025?
Michael Cohen: Washington. summersaga
Washington’s struggles in 2025 may be deemed unfair given the turmoil that hit the program during the offseason, particularly following Alabama’s head coach Nick Saban’s surprising retirement. Amidst the shake-up, Washington lost significant coaching staff and players right after competing for the national championship. New head coach Jedd Fisch now steps into this challenging environment, yet there’s renewed hope for a profitable season. With sophomore quarterback Demond Williams Jr. leading an explosive offense, supported by tailback Jonah Coleman and wideout Denzel Boston, Washington looks set to improve upon a 6-7 record.
RJ Young: Wisconsin.
Wisconsin’s strength has historically been in its running game, and new offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes is stepping in to revive that tradition. The Badgers have an impressive record when rushing for over 150 yards, and Grimes aims to restore that power as he takes the reins. With a revived focus, Wisconsin could turn around their fortunes in 2025.
Laken Litman: Florida State.
The Florida State Seminoles are gearing up for a rebound after a dismal 2-10 season. Under new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, the addition of dual-threat quarterback Tommy Castellanos from Boston College boosts expectations. With numerous newcomers from the transfer portal, there’s significant potential for improvement in 2025. A challenging schedule, including matchups against Alabama and Miami, will test the Seminoles early on.
3 kai sotto mother. Which of last year’s surprise teams are most likely to build on their success in 2025?
RJ Young: Missouri.
Missouri has demonstrated a strong trajectory under Eli Drinkwitz, achieving back-to-back double-digit win seasons for the first time since 2013 and 2014. With a new playmaker in former Penn State quarterback Beau Pribula, alongside other talented players, Missouri is poised to make a splash in the playoff race with a favorable schedule.
Laken Litman: Arizona State. exit past tense
After a compelling 2024 season that included a Big 12 title, Arizona State, led by Kenny Dillingham, looks primed to enhance their performance. Quarterback Sam Leavitt, who had a stellar freshman season, returns alongside a solid core from the previous year. After shocking preseason predictions, the Sun Devils are eager to prove their growth after an impressive season.
Michael Cohen: Illinois.
Illinois, coached by Bret Bielema, made significant strides last season and has retained a substantial number of starters. The team’s cohesive and experienced roster positions Illinois as a potential dark horse for the College Football Playoff, with a favorable schedule that avoids some of the toughest opponents, providing an excellent path to success.
With such great expectations for these teams, who do you believe will come out on top in the 2025 college football season policy makers in the philippines?