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Ranking the Big Ten assistant coaches who can make the best case for a head coaching job
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Autzen Zoo Feed
Heading into the 2026 college football season, 10 of the Big Ten's best coordinators will be in the mix for head coaching gigs with another solid season.
Barry Lunney Jr - Offensive Coordinator - IllinoisThis past coaching cycle, Barry Lunney Jr was a name thrown around for several head coaching gigs with the success he's had at Illinois.
Cortez Hankton - Wide Receivers Coach - Ohio StateBrian Hartline departs for the USF head coaching gig, and their replacement will have every chance to follow in his footsteps.
Chris Hampton - Defensive Coordinator - OregonTosh Lupoi took the jump from Oregon defensive coordinator to Cal head coach, allowing his co-DC, Chris Hampton, to assume the full-time role.
Arthur Smith - Offensive Coordinator - Ohio StateFollowing the success of hiring Matt Patricia, Ryan Day dipped back into the NFL ranks, hiring Arthur Smith as his offensive coordinator.