As Florida continues its high-stakes pursuit of Lane Kiffin, former Gators coach Steve Spurrier says the program shouldn’t panic if it misses on its top target.
While on the Another Dooley Noted Podcast, Spurrier named three candidates he believes could thrive in Gainesville should Kiffin choose LSU or remain at Ole Miss.
Spurrier said Tulane’s Jon Sumrall and James Madison’s Bob Chesney are two Group of 5 coaches whose track records demand serious consideration. He also endorsed Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, calling him an “excellent” potential fit for the Gators.
“There are a lot of good coaches out there who aren’t in the Power 4 right now,” Spurrier said. “The guy at James Madison, the guy at Tulane — they win consistently. Sometimes one of those coaches ends up being better than a big-name hire. You just never know.”
Sumrall has compiled a 41-11 record across stops at Troy and Tulane and brings SEC roots from previous being an assistant at Kentucky. Chesney, in just his second season at James Madison, has led the Dukes to a 19-5 mark, including a 10-1 campaign that has them atop the Sun Belt. Both offer proven development the Gators need immediately.
Drinkwitz represents the more conventional Power 4 option. Now in his sixth season at Missouri, he has guided the Tigers to a 45-27 record and a 28-8 stretch over the last three years, including back-to-back 10-win seasons. His rise has put him in the mix for multiple vacancies, including Florida, LSU and Penn State.
Florida enters its search at a crossroads. The Gators are 3-8 and staring at their fewest wins since 1953.
The next coach must restore SEC relevance and playoff expectations. Kiffin remains the dream hire, but Spurrier believes the path back to prominence could come through alternate means, if needed.
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