SEATTLE (AP) — Following a successful stint at the University of Washington, head coach Kalen DeBoer shocked many by leaving the program to take on a new challenge in the SEC. DeBoer’s departure leaves behind a significant job opening in Seattle as the Huskies transition to the Big Ten.
DeBoer’s impact on the Huskies was undeniable. In his debut season, the team went from a dismal 4-8 record in 2021 to an impressive 11-2 finish and a spot in the top 10. The following year, Washington won the Pac-12 title and reached the national championship game, ending the season with a 14-1 record and a No. 2 ranking.
Now, the Huskies are faced with finding their fourth head coach since 2019, raising questions about the direction the program will take. While there is a strong internal candidate in offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, the Huskies may also consider sitting head coaches for the role. The search promises to be an interesting one as Washington navigates through this transition period.
Another factor that could complicate the coaching search is the uncertainty surrounding Jim Harbaugh’s future at Michigan. If he decides to make the jump to the NFL, it may overlap with the candidate pool for the Huskies. Their search for a new head coach will be closely watched.
Among the potential candidates for the job is Washington offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who has been a protege of DeBoer’s. Grubb has been with the program since his time at Fresno State and has played a crucial role in building the team’s explosive offense. Hiring Grubb would provide some continuity for the Huskies during this period of transition.
Arizona head coach Jedd Fisch is another strong candidate in the mix. Fisch has done an exceptional job revitalizing a struggling program and led the Wildcats to a 10-3 record and a No. 11 ranking last season. With his talent evaluation skills and offensive expertise, Fisch would be a logical choice for the Huskies.
Lance Leipold, head coach at Kansas, has also garnered attention for his impressive turnaround of the Jayhawks program. Leipold has a history of success and has built a winning culture at every stop of his coaching career. His impact on the Kansas program has been remarkable, and keeping him would be a significant win for the Jayhawks.
Chris Klieman, head coach at Kansas State, is another potential candidate. Klieman has a track record of winning at the lower division level and has successfully made the transition to FBS football. He led Kansas State to a Big 12 title in 2022 and has proven his ability to build a successful program.
Matt Campbell, head coach at Iowa State, is a young and talented coach who has garnered attention from athletic directors for quite some time. Campbell has already achieved remarkable success at the Cyclones, including a top-10 finish and a Fiesta Bowl victory in 2020. His ability to develop NFL talent and sustain success at a challenging program makes him an enticing option.
Former Auburn head coach Bryan Harsin, although facing challenges in the SEC, has a proven track record as an offensive coach, particularly during his time at Boise State. Harsin’s familiarity with the Pacific Northwest and offensive acumen could make him an attractive candidate.
As the coaching search begins, Washington will aim to find a leader who can continue the team’s upward trajectory. The program has experienced significant success under DeBoer and will be looking for a coach who can build on that foundation. The Huskies have an important decision to make as they navigate through this transition period and aim to maintain their position as a strong contender in college football.