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Rutgers football’s difficult start to the 2026 season has sparked speculation about potential coaching changes. With an 0-2 record after losses to UMass and Boston College, athletic director Keli Zinn may already be considering alternatives to current head coach Greg Schiano, according to industry observers who note that successful athletic administrators maintain lists of potential candidates for major coaching positions.
Finding a suitable replacement presents significant challenges for Rutgers. The most recognizable names that fans might desire—such as Lane Kiffin, Ryan Day, and Sean McVay—are likely out of reach for the program. Instead, the athletic department would realistically need to target experienced coaches currently at other collegiate programs across multiple conference levels, from Power Four schools to smaller collegiate divisions.
Several intriguing candidates exist throughout college football. These range from established names like Brian Kelly and Chip Kelly to rising coaches such as Fran Brown at Syracuse. Other possibilities include Dan Mullen at UNLV, Ryan Carty at Delaware, and various coaches from mid-tier conferences including the American Athletic Conference, Mid-American Conference, and Sun Belt Conference. Each brings different levels of experience and geographic considerations to the equation.
While Schiano still has ten games remaining on the schedule, the early struggles have prompted athletics insiders to evaluate the coaching landscape. Finding the right fit will require balancing realistic expectations with the need for someone capable of rebuilding the program’s competitive standing within the Big Ten Conference.
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Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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