The offseason coaching carousel is beginning to gather steam across the Texas non-FBS landscape, with Prairie View A&M and Sul Ross State searching for new head coaches. The situation at Texas A&M-Kingsville is beginning to gain some clarity after defensive coordinator Jamison Bisch was named interim head coach when former head coach Michael Salinas stepped into the role of Director of Athletics full-time.

The transfer portal is also gaining momentum, with Abilene Christian’s roster suffering the most significant hits so far, and Mary Hardin-Baylor is back to dominating in the playoffs. Let’s dive in!

Prairie View A&M search for head coach

Information regarding PVAMU’s search for a head coach has been minimal. However, multiple sources have indicated that a two-time state championship coach currently at a Class 6A powerhouse has been contacted regarding the Panthers' vacancy. Sources indicate the interest is mutual. One potential sticking point is ensuring PVAMU is committed to funding the program at a level necessary to compete with the top teams in the SWAC.

Sul Ross State head coach search

I expected minimal information regarding the Lobos' search for a head coach, as the administration prefers to keep things in-house. Information about SRSU's search has indeed been scarce. However, we can eliminate one candidate sources indicated was interested in the position in Alpine after Dr. Jack Welch announced his departure from East Texas A&M to become the special teams coordinator and chief of staff under Hal Mumme for the San Antonio Caballeros of the International Football Alliance. The IFA is a newly formed 11-man outdoor football league, expected to begin play in June 2025 with teams in the United States and Mexico.

Finalists to be next Texas A&M-Kingsville head coach

The search for a head football coach in Kingsville is nearing completion. Former head coach Michael Salinas, named interim athletic director in early September, has transitioned into the full-time role. According to sources, the Javelinas have five finalists. Interviews are expected in the middle of next week, and an announcement is possible shortly after. 

Sources indicate the finalists are Jamison Bisch, interim head coach and defensive coordinator; Scott Parr, Louisiana Tech co-offensive coordinator; Michael Walton, special teams coordinator at Tarleton; Kevin Kilmer, offensive coordinator at Angelo State; and Jesse Burleson, head coach at Hardin-Simmons.

Could a current LSC defensive coordinator be headed to the RMAC?

Multiple sources have indicated that Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference member Adams State will likely hire a head football coach with ties to the Lone Star Conference. According to those sources, two finalists are a former LSC head coach and current West Texas A&M assistant head coach, defensive coordinator, and defensive line coach Levi Gallas. A decision is expected within the next five days.

Wildcats hit hard by transfer portal

The Abilene Christian roster will look different next season after multiple starters entered the transfer portal following last week's loss to powerhouse North Dakota State in the second round of the FCS playoffs. Starting quarterback Maverick McIvor, defensive linemen David Oke and Jerry Lawson, center Tay Yanta, and defensive back Jordan Mukes announced their entry via social media.

Mary Hardin-Baylor is a threat to win another national title

Nothing is as cathartic as winning. In the Cru’s case, that means winning playoff football games. They experienced tons of success under legendary head coach Pete Fredenburg. Replacing a legend and continuing the program’s success is extremely difficult. That task hasn’t been easier for Larry Harmon despite spending 20 seasons as defensive coordinator under Fredenburg. Harmon made it look easy in his first season, leading UMHB to a 12-2 record and an appearance in the NCAA Division III semifinals.

However, a young Crusader squad struggled to a 6-4 record in 2023 and entered the playoffs this year with a 6-3 record. Factor in a three-game losing streak to rival Hardin-Simmons, and dissatisfaction was evident around Belton. Some around the program believed apathy had set in and the program was no longer receiving the same support from the alumni, student body, and community as they had experienced in previous seasons.

Playoff success has changed many perceptions about the program, leading fans and pundits to admit to eating crow about its direction. Tyler Reed took eating crow seriously and filmed himself barbecuing a crow on X/Twitter after the Cru defeated Linfield to advance to the quarterfinals. 

Still, Harmon, staff, and players deserve credit for continuing to work and improve each week despite some negativity surrounding the program. A young roster that has matured and been forged in the fire the last two seasons, led by quarterback Jake Wright, a resurgent rushing attack, and an elite defense, is primed to complete a magical run to the national championship game in Houston.