Whomever is awarded Coach of the Year at the conclusion of the 2020 season will have certainly deserved the honor.
In a season full of uncertainty due to the pandemic, coaches have had to operate in uncharted waters. On Wednesday, 24 nominees were recognized for their contributions both on and off the field for the Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year Award.
From first glance, the watch list notably excluded Liberty head coach Hugh Freeze who has impressively led the Flames to an undefeated 8-0 record up to this point. Although Freeze coaches at a smaller program, it’s nonetheless shocking considering Costal Carolina head coach Jamey Chadwell was included.
There were also a couple of candidates listed that may have you scratch your head. Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn and Texas head coach Tom Herman are both widely considered to be on the hot seat this year, yet are each listed among the nominees.
Herman’s squad has been extremely inconsistent and undisciplined while Texas continues to suffer inexcusable losses to unranked teams each year. However, Herman could certainly regain respect from the fanbase if he’s able to run the table and sneak into the Big 12 title game.
Three other Big 12 coaches were named to the award watch list:
- Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State
- Lincoln Riley, Oklahoma
- Matt Campbell, Iowa State