Seattle, Washington – Washington Huskies football coach Kalen DeBoer has accepted the prestigious head coach position at the University of Alabama, replacing the legendary Nick Saban. DeBoer, who boasts an impressive overall record of 104-12 from his coaching stints at Sioux Falls, Fresno State, and Washington, recently led the Huskies to an undefeated regular season and a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship. However, they were ultimately defeated by Michigan with a score of 34-13.
With DeBoer’s departure, attention now turns to finding his successor at Washington. The program has a history of promoting from within and not making extravagant coaching hires. After Chris Petersen stepped down in 2019, the Huskies promoted Jimmy Lake from within. It was a similar approach when DeBoer was hired from Fresno State after a successful tenure with the Bulldogs.
One potential candidate to replace DeBoer is Ryan Grubb, Washington’s offensive coordinator. Grubb has worked closely with DeBoer at all of his previous coaching stops and was instrumental in developing a high-powered Washington offense. Grubb’s familiarity with the program, recruiting landscape, and similar coaching philosophy could make him a suitable choice for the job. Interestingly, Grubb turned down an offer to join Alabama as their offensive coordinator last year.
Another contender is Chris Klieman, the current head coach of Kansas State. Klieman has a proven track record of success throughout his coaching career and recently led the Wildcats to a Big 12 title. His experience in sustaining success under the spotlight, along with the challenge of transitioning from the Big 12 to the Big Ten, could make him an appealing option for Washington.
Lance Leipold, the current head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks, is also a potential candidate. Like DeBoer, Leipold has a history of winning in every program he has coached. He achieved six national titles at Wisconsin-Whitewater and transformed the Kansas program, leading them to bowl games in two of the past three seasons. Leipold’s ability to turn around struggling teams and make them relevant could make him a strong contender for the Huskies’ head coaching position.
Jedd Fisch, the current head coach of the Arizona Wildcats, is another name to consider. Despite a challenging first season, Fisch quickly turned around the Arizona program, leading them to a 10-win season and a ranking in the AP Top 25. His success in the Pac-12 conference, combined with the resources and prestige of Washington, could make him an enticing candidate for the position.
Lastly, Dave Clawson, the head coach of Wake Forest, and Matt Campbell, the head coach of Iowa State, could also be considered. Clawson has turned the Demon Deacons into a consistent bowl team and has a strong offensive system. Campbell, known for his roster development and bowl appearances at Iowa State, could be a top choice despite the geographical distance between Iowa and Washington.
As the Washington Huskies search for their next head coach, they face the challenge of finding someone who can sustain the program’s success and navigate its transition to the Big Ten conference in 2024. The decision ultimately rests with athletic director Troy Dannen, who will need to carefully consider the potential candidates and make a choice that best aligns with the future goals and aspirations of the Washington Huskies football program.