Orgeron a strong choice for rival

Evan Ammouri

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Ed Orgeron emerges as a bold candidate for a major Texas A&M rival image

TL;DR

  • Ed Orgeron reportedly in discussions with Arkansas for 2026 head coaching position.
  • Orgeron's potential hire could significantly impact SEC West recruiting and rivalries.
  • Texas A&M may face recruiting challenges due to Orgeron's ties to Southern states.
  • Reports are speculative; Arkansas is also considering other coaching candidates.

Last week, a significant revelation emerged when Pete Nakos of On3 Sports initially shared news concerning former LSU head coach Ed Orgeron's alleged discussions with Arkansas regarding their open head coaching position for the 2026 season. Nakos named Orgeron as someone "to know" prior to Arkansas commencing their offseason search, but it was also noted that Orgeron has been connected with Oregon State and even a potential comeback to LSU. 

Arkansas might be Ed Orgeron's next destination.

If Arkansas were able to secure Ed Orgeron to a deal this offseason, this would have major effects on the SEC West's outlook. Orgeron, who is only six years removed from his 15-0, national championship season, would instantly become one of Arkansas's most accomplished coaches to date. 

Coach O continues to be a significant presence in the SEC, notwithstanding the acrimonious conclusion of his tenure with LSU, which was marred by subpar results and off-field improprieties. Regardless of the controversies surrounding him, his on-field achievements are exceptionally strong, positioning him as an attractive prospect for Arkansas's athletic administration. 

Conversely, the situation appears quite different when examined from the viewpoint of Arkansas's primary adversaries. For instance, Texas A&M would encounter significant hurdles with Coach O's presence in the SEC West. Recruiting stands out as the most substantial worry, given Orgeron's extensive ties to Southern recruiting grounds. Coach O's sway in states such as Louisiana and Mississippi might divert crucial recruits from The Aggies going forward, possibly diminishing the advantage Texas A&M has recently established through its recruitment channels. 

Historically, Orgeron's approach to the game has addressed a deficiency within the Aggies' strategy. Coach O's squads have been known for their commitment to the physical aspects of the game, and for an offense focused on passing like the Aggies, this focus on the offensive line and defensive fronts might prove detrimental to a Texas A&M team that is among the slowest in average time to throw.

Coach O's record against the Aggies stands at 4-2, including the memorable 74-72 defeat in 2018. Should Orgeron be appointed at Arkansas, this rivalry, which has leaned heavily in one direction lately, would transform into an annual must-see event. 

Despite this, these reports are currently just conjecture. Arkansas has also been associated with other coaches, including Eric Morris at North Texas and Alex Golesh at South Florida, suggesting their contact with Orgeron might be the extent of their interaction. 

On3 stated that communication has begun between Orgeron and the university, though that's the extent of it currently. Pete Nakos noted that formal interviews would precede any potential contract proposal, so Aggie supporters ought to closely monitor this offseason's coaching changes as the season concludes. 

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Staff Writer