Kirby Smart ranked as the best Coach in college football in 2025, beats Ohio State’s Ryan Day, Oregon’s Dan Lanning and Texas’ Steve Sarkisian per 247 sports
Since taking the helm at Georgia in 2016, Kirby Smart has transformed the Bulldogs into a dominant force in college football. With a current record of 105–19, Smart has led Georgia to two national championships (2021, 2022) and three SEC titles (2017, 2022, 2024) . His ability to consistently recruit top talent and develop players has been instrumental in Georgia’s sustained excellence.Wikipedia
247Sports highlights Smart’s resilience, noting that despite offensive inconsistencies in 2024, he guided Georgia to an SEC championship and a College Football Playoff appearance, demonstrating his adeptness in navigating challenges and maintaining program success .The Spun
Ryan Day has been a pivotal figure at Ohio State, compiling a 56–8 overall record and a 39–3 conference record . Under his leadership, the Buckeyes secured a national championship in 2024, defeating teams like Tennessee, Oregon, Texas, and Notre Dame . While his tenure has been marked by significant achievements, the rivalry with Michigan remains a focal point, with fans eagerly anticipating future matchups.CBSSports.comOn3
Dan Lanning, in his third season as Oregon’s head coach, has rapidly elevated the program’s stature. With a 35–6 record, including a Big Ten championship in 2024, Lanning has demonstrated exceptional prowess in recruiting and game strategy . His efforts have earned him a six-year contract averaging nearly $11 million annually, placing him among the highest-paid coaches nationally .Reuters
Steve Sarkisian has been instrumental in restoring Texas to national prominence. While the Longhorns have yet to secure a national title under his guidance, Sarkisian has assembled a roster brimming with talent, positioning Texas as a perennial contender . His leadership has been pivotal in the program’s resurgence, with Texas consistently competing at a high level.On3
The 2025 coaching rankings reflect a broader trend in college football, where adaptability and strategic acumen are paramount. Coaches like Smart, Day, Lanning, and Sarkisian exemplify the evolving demands of the sport, balancing traditional coaching methodologies with modern innovations in recruiting, player development, and game strategy.
As college football continues to evolve, the leadership of these coaches will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of their respective programs and the sport as a whole.
Kirby Smart’s recognition as the top college football head coach in 2025 is a testament to his exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and sustained success at Georgia. While Ryan Day, Dan Lanning, and Steve Sarkisian have made significant impacts at their programs, Smart’s consistent excellence sets him apart in the competitive landscape of college football coaching.
