Back in 2015, Dabo Swinney shared some thoughts on what makes a successful program—whether in sports or business. He believed great organizations never just sit still. They continuously reinvent and adapt. “You’ve got to challenge yourself and ask, ‘Is this still the right way?'” he said.
Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape of college football has changed dramatically. With direct revenue-sharing, name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, and the transfer portal, teams have to think differently about recruiting and coaching.
Mike Gundy, former head coach at Oklahoma State, embodies the struggle with these changes. After 21 successful years as the school’s winningest coach, he found himself out of a job following a lackluster start to the season. At a press conference, he lamented the new reality of college football, comparing it to being in a tough argument. “If you know you’re right but you’re wrong, you have to adapt for things to run smoothly.”
Gundy and Swinney are both in their late 50s. They’ve built programs through competitive drive and personal charm but have been critical of the shifts in college football. Swinney’s Clemson, once a title favorite, struggled with a 1-3 record, including losses to teams seen as underdogs. Meanwhile, Gundy was fired after just three games.
Adaptability matters. Coaches who embrace tools like the transfer portal can recruit talent that might have slipped through the cracks. Players often leave smaller schools for opportunities at bigger programs, aiming to prove themselves. Many didn’t have the same resources, coaches, or visibility in high school.
Coaches who’re open to utilizing these new avenues are more likely to find success. Teams that beat higher-ranked recruits, like Syracuse or Georgia Tech defeating Clemson, often had an unbeatable drive to win—something that doesn’t show up in stats or rankings.
While some older coaches resist these changes, others like 64-year-old Curt Cignetti thrive by embracing them. Adaptability isn’t just about age; it’s a mindset. Coaches need to approach each season with a readiness to learn and grow.
The heart of the matter? It’s not just about keeping up with the changes. It’s about cultivating a passion to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape. The old ways may feel comfortable, but to truly succeed, flexibility and a willingness to change are key.
Reinvent, reinvest, reset, learn, grow. That’s the way forward.
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