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College Football: 10 assistants who will become head coaches in 2021

By Dante Pryor

NORMAN, OK - SEPTEMBER 28: Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch observers warm ups before the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on September 28, 2019 in Norman, Oklahoma. The Sooners defeated the Red Raiders 55-16. (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images)
NORMAN, OK - SEPTEMBER 28: Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch observers warm ups before the game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on September 28, 2019 in Norman, Oklahoma. The Sooners defeated the Red Raiders 55-16. (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images) /
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SOUTH BEND, IN – OCTOBER 12: A detail view of the back of a Notre Dame Fighting Irish helmet during a game against the USC Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 12, 2019 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated USC 30-27. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
SOUTH BEND, IN – OCTOBER 12: A detail view of the back of a Notre Dame Fighting Irish helmet during a game against the USC Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 12, 2019 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated USC 30-27. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

6. Clark Lea, Notre Dame (DC)

Clark Lea, the protege of the aforementioned Mike Elko, has made the most of every opportunity he has been given in his coaching career. He was elevated from linebackers coach to defensive coordinator when Elko left to take over the defense at Texas A&M.

Sure, the Notre Dame defense took a step back last season, but that is to be expected when you lose the talent they lost. It is hard for any program to recover after losing NFL-caliber talent. They still had one of the best secondaries in the country, however.

What makes Lea so attractive as a potential head coach is his ability to develop talent. While coaching linebackers at Syracuse, Lea developed Zaire Franklin into an all-conference performer. While at Wake Forest — under Elko — he did the same with Marquel Gray.

While in South Bend, he mentored the likes of Tavon Comey, Drue Tranquill and Greer Martini. His ability to get the most from his players is a quality you want in a head coach. Don’t be surprised if a developmental program gives Lea his first opportunity to become a head coach.

If the Irish defense does well this season, it might be sooner than later.

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