The DeShaun Foster era is over. Now, UCLA must decide whether to lean on familiar roots, proven winners, or make the kind of splash that would shake up the Big Ten.
If the Bruins want to stick to the familiar, Tony White, Florida State’s defensive coordinator and a former UCLA linebacker, has quickly become a fan favorite. His reputation as a fiery recruiter and defensive tactician makes him an easy fit.
Boise State’s Spencer Danielson also brings heavy Southern California ties, having played and started his coaching career at Azusa Pacific. And Pasadena native Jonathan Smith, now at Michigan State after a successful run at Oregon State, looms as a compelling homecoming storyline.
UCLA has dismissed DeShaun Foster, and announced that Tim Skipper will serve as interim head coach. pic.twitter.com/Z5MjHcIAgX
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) September 14, 2025
If UCLA casts a wider net, perhaps Jedd Fisch is a target. He guided UCLA through the interim in 2017 and coached under Sean McVay with the Rams. After rebuilding Arizona, he’s now thriving at Washington.
PJ Fleck’s culture-driven approach has kept Minnesota competitive in the Big Ten, while David Shaw remains a respected name after years of stability at Stanford.
Additionally, some younger coaching stars on the rise include South Florida’s Alex Golesh and Oklahoma offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle.
Then there are the heavyweights. Jimbo Fisher, who once lifted Florida State to a national championship, brings immediate credibility. Mike McCarthy, a Super Bowl–winning coach with the Packers and Cowboys, would electrify boosters but faces questions about adapting to the college grind. And Jon Gruden, another Super Bowl champion with West Coast ties from his Raiders tenure, represents the ultimate wild card. He’s a bold, headline-grabbing hire that would come with risk but undeniable attention.
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