Realistic Names for State

Anyone saying we didn't give Arnett enough time is a moron or just likes State being down. This was a disaster. We returned 18 starters from a 9-win team.

That being said, the timing was great. We could have someone locked down before the end of the season when the firings across the nation start happening. I have scouted the MSU boards, listened to Bo Bounds, and have some realistic names for you.

Make Them Say No Group

These are coaches that might consider MSU if the $$$ is right, but may be waiting on other openings. MSU and the SEC is a step up from all of these positions, but you can argue that right now, these teams are in better shape.

Gus Malzahn, Central Florida
Mike Elko, Duke
Lance Leipold, Kansas

All will likely say no, but you have to try.

G5 Coaches on the Rise

Jon Sumrall, Troy
Willie Fritz, Tulane
GJ KInne, Texas State
Jeff Traylor, UTSA

I think at least two of these will be interviewed/strongly considered. I think three of them will be coaching in the Power 5 in the next couple of seasons.

Retreads

Bobby Petrino
Dan Mullen

Bo Bounds says there is zero mutual interest in Mullen coming back, but who knows. His coaching style really worked at State, where we have a state full of diamonds in the rough. Petrino is intriguing as well.

Coordinators

Petrino could be on this list as well, but here are some sitting coordinators that could be considered, although I believe we will hire a sitting head coach.

Phil Longo, Wisconsin
Kendal Briles, TCU
Jeff Lebby, Oklahoma

Wildcards

There are two sitting coaches that could make their way into conversations.

Shane Beamer, South Carolina
Bret Billema, Illinois