Possible Head Coach Candidates for Oregon State

If he can win two of the final three games, I think he’s in play to get the job. He has this team playing more inspired than they have since the Jonathan Smith teams. 

Bryan Harsin

Offensive Coordinator, Cal

Harsin was always a bad fit for the SEC and the Auburn boosters tried to run him out of town almost immediately. He was doomed to fail, partly because of himself and partly because of the culture. He was a resounding success in his previous seven seasons at Boise State, going 69-19 with a bowl game every year except the COVID-shortened 2020 season.

His success there has been quickly forgotten in the wake of Auburn, but it shouldn’t be. In 2025 his Bears (5-4, 2-3 ACC) offense looks fundamental and efficient starting freshman QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele. If I was OSU and he wanted the job, I’d have trouble passing on him. He will probably be a candidate for MWC openings this offseason.

Brennan Marion

Head Coach, Sacramento State

Marion is in his first year as boss of the Hornets (5-4, 2-3 Big Sky) with losses coming to FCS powers No.9 South Dakota State (7-2, 3-2 MVFC) and No. 2 Montana (9-0, 5-0 Big Sky), as well as FBS Nevada (1-7, 0-4 MWC). He has shown us that he will move up the ladder in search of that better job.

He is as innovative as they come and his team’s ability to run the ball is almost a guarantee. The go-go offense would be a niche that could help them win right away and his ability to attract talent is quite good. His time as an FBS head coach will come, he is adapting to the new era of college football well.  

Brent Vigen

Head Coach, Montana State

In his fifth year at Montana State, he consistently has the No. 3 Bobcats (7-2, 5-0 Big Sky) among the nation’s elite. Longtime Craig Bohl assistant at both North Dakota State and Wyoming, Vigen appears to be a prime candidate for a Mountain West or MAC job should one come up.

He is 54-12 in his time at MSU and was the No. 1 seed overall in last year’s FCS playoffs. This would be a good first FBS head job for him and a good hire for a stable program builder. 

Kefense Hynson

Pass Game Coordinator, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

Hynson was previously Oregon State from 2018 to 2024 and was the interim head coach for the bowl game in 2023 after Jonathan Smith left for Michigan State. He spent last year as Bray’s assistant before moving to the NFL this season.

The Bucs are playing good football with him and throwing effectively, specifically what he was brought in to improve. His rapport with the team when he was at OSU, NFL success and the attitude he brings could be appealing to some. He’s a name to watch.