Big 12 Football: Head coach power rankings entering 2015
By Hayden Hyde
Nov 29, 2014; Ames, IA, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers head coach Dana Holgorsen looks on during his teams game against the Iowa State Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium. The Mountaineers beat the Cyclones 37 – 24. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports
8. Dana Holgorsen – West Virginia Mountaineers
Career Record (28-23)
Holgorsen is a young, innovative offensive mind. He’s helped successfully transition the Mountaineers from the Big East to the Big 12. Holgorsen has worked under brilliant, offensive minded coaches like Mike Leach, Kevin Sumlin, and Mike Gundy.
West Virginia’s teams are usually more talented than the record they post. Holgorsen has sent some very good players to the NFL at West Virginia; Tavon Austin, Geno Smith, and Stedman Bailey all played in Holgorsen’s offense. West Virginia isn’t reeling in 5 star recruits, so this is a testament to the coaching staff’s ability to develop players.
The Mountaineers will return 15 starters on offense and defense this season, making them a dark horse threat to win the Big 12. With Holgorsen’s offensive mind, and returning talent, this idea may not be so far-fetched.
Next: Kliff Kingsbury