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It seems like most SEC coaches that have tested their luck in the NFL haven’t worked out.
We all know about Nick Saban’s time with the Dolphins. It seems crazy to think that there was actually somewhere where he didn’t succeed.
And then there was Steve Spurrier’s stint with the Redskins. That didn’t work out too well.
The college game is much different. Hence the reason why some coaches can find success in the NCAA but not in the pros.
But there are still assistants scattered throughout the college game that may get calls from NFL front offices.
Let’s take a look:
Lane Kiffin: Kiffin has already had one failed go around in the NFL that ended up as a disaster with the Raiders. He was the youngest NFL head coach in league history at the time and obviously wasn’t ready. But since then, Kiffin has continued to find ways to bounce back. He has a great gig at Alabama and has done well, but that won’t stop NFL squads from picking up the phone. It isn’t likely that he would become a head coach in the pros again, but it’s tough to rule him out as a coordinator. Teams like Miami, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston and others are looking for a revamped offense. Kiffin could be the guy.
Cam Cameron: Cameron hasn’t been great at LSU, but he hasn’t been bad, either. Les Miles has hinted at changes and Cameron could be out the door. The Tigers offense ranked 50th in the country, but should be better considering the top prospects on the roster. Cameron has always seemed like a guy better suited for the NFL, and when is contract expires in March he may be headed back. He was decent in his last stint with the Ravens and could land on another pro staff come the fall.
Jon Hoke: Steve Spurrier brought in Jon Hoke to revamp the Gamecocks’ struggling defense. It didn’t work. The defense actually regressed statistically. Will Muschamp will now take over, so Hoke won’t be back. Hoke had successful stints with the Texans and Bears, so maybe the NFL is the best fit for him.
Sean Labar is an SEC football contributor for Saturday Down South.
