USA Today Says These Three Big 12 Coaches Are in Trouble in 2025

The USA Today Network has spotlighted three Big 12 football coaches among the nine with the hottest seats heading into 2025.

Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy, Cincinnati’s Scott Satterfield, and Arizona’s Brent Brennan all landed on the list, underscoring growing pressure within their programs.

Mike Gundy is among the longest-tenured coaches in the sport, but last season’s performance in conference action marked one of the low points of his tenure. The Cowboys ended with a 3‑9 record, prompting a restructured contract and increased expectations for a rapid rebound.

Scott Satterfield arrived at Cincinnati with an impressive pedigree from Louisville, but the Bearcats have not matched that success. In two seasons, they are 8‑16 overall and 4‑14 in Big 12 play, and their 2024 campaign ended with a five-game losing streak.

Brent Brennan’s challenges at Arizona are equally stark. After inheriting a strong foundation from Jedd Fisch, he led the Wildcats to a disappointing 4‑8 record. Entering his second year in the Big 12, expectations are lower than they were in his first year, and a lack of early progress could quickly shift momentum.

These names reflect how success in the Big 12, and college football overall, can be brutally short-lived. Gundy, Satterfield, and Brennan must deliver meaningful results early in the season to avoid crossing into irreversible territory. For their schools and fans, the coming weeks are likely to define not just a season, but perhaps entire coaching legacies.