Paul Finebaum breaks down the hottest names in the coaching carousel

We may be witnessing one of the wildest coaching carousels in the history of college football. As everyone attempts to predict how some of the top programs will move forward, Paul Finebaum broke down some of the names on The ESPN College Football Podcast.

“Lane Kiffin, James Franklin, Mel Tucker, Jimbo Fisher, Billy Napier, Luke Fickell, Matt Campbell,” listed Finebaum. “Now of that group, Jimbo Fisher isn’t leaving. Mel Tucker isn’t leaving.

“Then you have Fickell and Campbell, who’s names come up for every job in America. And James Franklin — You tell me, how happy is his own fanbase with him right now?”

Since the day USC and Clay Helton decided to part ways, Fickell, Campbell and Franklin have been hot candidates. Then, it was announced Ed Orgeron wouldn’t return to LSU. Afterwards, Kiffin, Tucker, Fisher and Napier’s names continued to pop up more often.

Now, another big-time job opening is on the table with the Florida Gators. Even with so many great candidates, Finebaum is only certain one would have success — Jimbo Fisher.

“There’s only one on that list that I would tell you I would absolutely be confident of if he went to one of those schools to be successful,” stated Finebaum, speaking about the current Texas A&M coach.

Fisher may be the best option. However, he has arguably the best gig of any coach who’s name has been associated with the job openings. It’ll take an inordinate offer to pry Fisher away from Texas A&M.

What’s Florida looking for in their next head coach?

As Paul Finebaum theorizes which head coaches could be on the move, Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin is examining his options. After firing Dan Mullen after amassing a 34-15 record in four years at the helm (13-10 in the last two seasons), Stricklin is looking for his next leader.

Moreover, Stricklin held a press conference hours after the news was first reported and explained why Florida made the $12-million decision to move on from Mullen. Additionally, he stated what Florida is looking for in its next head football coach.

“I have some thoughts [on what I’m looking for], and I’m probably going to keep some of those thoughts to myself,” Stricklin said. “But obviously, we want somebody going forward who can come in here and they share our high expectations for sustained success. And can do so at a place with great resources like the University of Florida.”

Stricklin in his opening statement also revealed details of his initial conversation with Mullen. He said that he offered Mullen the opportunity to coach Florida’s upcoming rivalry game against Florida State, a game in which both teams are looking to claim bowl eligibility, but Mullen declined, saying he didn’t want to be a distraction for the team.