Table of Contents
- Cal Football Coaching Search: Navigating Financial Strain and Realignment Uncertainty
- Cal Football: A Historical Perspective
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the biggest challenges facing the next Cal football coach?
- What is the significance of the Rivera family’s investment in Cal football?
- How will conference realignment impact Cal football?
- Who are some of the leading candidates for the Cal football coaching job?
- What is the current state of Cal football’s finances?
Berkeley, CA - The University of California, Berkeley launched its search for a new football head coach on November 25, 2025, at 18:00:24 PST, following a season marked by both promise and instability. The position presents a unique challenge: attracting a qualified leader to a program grappling with critically important financial pressures and the ongoing complexities of conference realignment.The stakes are high, as Cal seeks to restore its football program to prominence in a rapidly evolving collegiate landscape.
The coaching vacancy arrives at a pivotal moment for Cal athletics. Recent investments by the university,spearheaded by athletic director Jim Knowlton and bolstered by the Rivera family’s commitment,signal a renewed focus on football. Though, the program’s future remains intertwined with the financial realities of its athletic department and the uncertain trajectory of its conference affiliation. The next head coach will be tasked with building a competitive team while navigating thes external factors.
Potential Candidates Emerge
Several candidates have surfaced as potential successors, each bringing a distinct profile to the table. Former Cal head coach Jeff Tedford, who coached the Golden Bears from 2002 to 2012, is considered a strong contender. He achieved considerable success during his initial tenure, leading Cal to multiple bowl appearances, and is familiar with the UC system. Tedford’s NFL experience, including two head coaching stints, could prove valuable in the current era of college football.
San Diego State’s Sean Lewis, at 39 years old, has quickly established himself as a rising star in the coaching ranks. In his second season with the Aztecs, he has guided the team to a 9-2 record and a leading national ranking in scoring defense (No. 2). Despite a background rooted in fast-paced offense, Lewis’s team’s defensive prowess demonstrates adaptability.
Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb,49,brings a proven track record of offensive success. He has spent time at Fresno State and Washington, and is currently helping develop Heisman Trophy contender Ty Simpson. Grubb’s familiarity with the West Coast region could be an asset.
UC Davis head coach Tim Plough, a San Diego native, has compiled a 19-6 record in two seasons with the Aggies, leading them to consecutive FCS playoff appearances. He previously served as Cal’s tight ends coach in 2023, providing him with recent experience within the program.
Delaware State head coach DeSean Jackson, a former Cal receiver, has engineered an impressive turnaround in his first year, leading the Hornets to an 8-4 record after a previous 1-11 season. While it may be premature for a jump to a Power 4 job, Jackson is a name to watch for future opportunities.
Michigan State’s Jonathan Smith, a Pasadena native, faces an uncertain future with the Spartans, potentially opening the door for a move.He previously achieved success at Oregon State, but has struggled in his two seasons at Michigan State, posting an 8-15 record.
Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson, 37, has a 22-7 record with the Broncos, including a College Football Playoff appearance last season. Despite a slightly more challenging 7-4 record this year, Boise State remains a contender for a Mountain West championship.
New Mexico head coach Jason Eck has revitalized the Lobos program, leading them to an 8-3 record in his first season after the team lost nearly all of its key players to the transfer portal. The New York Times detailed the challenges Eck overcame in rebuilding the program,including a Rose Bowl victory over UCLA.
Financial realities and Conference Realignment
The financial landscape at Cal presents a significant hurdle for any prospective coach. The university’s athletic department has faced budgetary constraints,and the recent conference realignment has added further uncertainty. The move to the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) brings new challenges and opportunities, but also requires navigating a new competitive environment and travel demands.
This isn’t a hopeless situation at all,and Rivera’s presence has ramped up the seriousness with which Cal is finally taking football.
– Athletic Department Spokesperson
| Candidate | Current Role | Record (as of 11/25/2025) | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeff Tedford | former Cal Head Coach | N/A | Familiarity with program, NFL experience |
| Sean Lewis | San Diego State HC | 9-2 | Defensive prowess, young and energetic |
| Ryan Grubb | Alabama OC | N/A | Offensive expertise, West Coast ties |
| Tim Plough | UC Davis HC | 19-6 | Recent Cal experience, FCS success |
| DeSean Jackson | Delaware State HC | 8-4 | Program turnaround, Cal alum |
Did you know?
The Rivera family’s significant financial commitment to Cal football is intended to bolster the program’s recruiting efforts and facilities upgrades, aiming to bridge the gap with competitors in the ACC.
Pro Tip:
Keep a close watch on the developments surrounding Jonathan Smith’s situation at Michigan State, as his potential availability could significantly alter the coaching search landscape.
the Cal football coaching job presents a compelling, yet challenging, chance. While the program faces financial and realignment hurdles, the recent investments and the potential for success in the ACC offer a glimmer of hope. The next head coach will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Cal football.
What qualities do you think are most vital for the next Cal football coach? And how confident are you in Cal’s ability to navigate the challenges of conference realignment?
Cal Football: A Historical Perspective
Cal football has a rich history, dating back to 1886. The program has produced numerous All-Americans and NFL players, and has enjoyed periods of national prominence. However, the program has struggled to consistently compete at the highest level in recent decades. The current coaching search represents an attempt to revitalize the program and restore it to its former glory. The university’s commitment to football, coupled with the potential benefits of its new conference affiliation, could pave the way for a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest challenges facing the next Cal football coach?
The next coach will need to address financial constraints, navigate conference realignment, and rebuild a program that has struggled with consistency in recent years.
What is the significance of the Rivera family’s investment in Cal football?
The Rivera family’s financial commitment is intended to bolster recruiting efforts and facilities upgrades, helping Cal compete with programs in the ACC.
How will conference realignment impact Cal football?
Conference realignment presents both challenges and opportunities. Cal will face new competition in the ACC, but also has the potential to expand its national reach and revenue streams.
Who are some of the leading candidates for the Cal football coaching job?
Jeff Tedford, Sean Lewis, Ryan Grubb, Tim plough, and DeSean Jackson are among the candidates who have been mentioned as potential successors.
What is the current state of Cal football’s finances?
Cal’s athletic department has faced budgetary constraints, making financial stability a key consideration in the coaching search.
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