The SEC is entering 2025 with a rare storyline: three Group of Five head coaches making the jump into the nation’s toughest conference. None of them have coached a single SEC snap yet, but early impressions, résumé strength, cultural fit, and fan enthusiasm already provide a fascinating power ranking of who looks strongest on paper heading into Year 1.
These early rankings aren’t based on roster talent or projected win totals: only fit, potential, and early fan/base excitement.
1. Alex Golesh (Auburn)
Auburn appears to be the only SEC fanbase genuinely thrilled with its Group of Five hire.