College football's annual coaching carousel has officially begun, with multiple programs expected to make changes following the 2026 regular season. The traditional "firing season" typically intensifies in November as athletic directors evaluate program performance and make decisions about leadership changes.
Several high-profile coaches enter the final weeks of the regular season under increased scrutiny. Programs with underwhelming records or unmet expectations often initiate searches for new leadership before the early signing period in December.
The coaching market has become increasingly competitive in recent years, with schools investing heavily in buyouts and new contracts. Athletic directors must balance program momentum, recruiting impact, and financial considerations when making coaching changes.
