CFB Coaches UNDER THE MOST PRESSURE, Have The BEST FIRST SEASONS in 2026 with Josh Pate

In this episode of Crain & Cone, hosts Jake and Cone dive into the 2026 college football landscape with guest Josh Pate, focusing on the pressure-cooker environment for new head coaches, particularly in the SEC. They debate which of the five new SEC coaches—Lane Kiffin at LSU, John Sumrall at Florida, Ryan Silverfield at Arkansas, Pete Golding at Ole Miss, and Will Stein at Kentucky—will have the best inaugural season, with Sumrall emerging as a strong contender due to his no-nonsense approach and Florida’s talent depth. The conversation shifts to the intense pressure on coaches like Dave Aranda (Baylor), Dabo Swinney (Clemson), Mike Norvell (Florida State), Lincoln Riley (USC), and Kalen DeBoer (Alabama), with Norvell’s job security questioned due to a massive buyout and lack of progress. The hosts also explore the idea of a 'disappointing' season for Lane Kiffin at LSU—anything under nine wins—and reflect on how team identity, culture, and roster stability influence early success. The episode blends sharp analysis with humor, including a satirical take on arranged marriages and Game of Thrones, while promoting fitness brand FitBod and protein brand First Form.