Razorbacks weigh Lashlee or Golesh to be next head coach

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — With Sam Pittman relieved of his duties, the Arkansas Razorbacks find themselves at a crossroads, navigating a high-stakes coaching search with two prime contenders emerging: Rhett Lashlee of SMU and Alex Golesh of South Florida.

The decision comes amid growing scrutiny over Arkansas’ financial commitment to football and whether it can land a coach bold enough to reset expectations in the SEC’s lower tier.

Rhett Lashlee, a native of Springdale, Arkansas, and a former Razorbacks quarterback, has both sentimental and strategic appeal. His coaching trajectory includes roles as an offensive coordinator under Gus Malzahn at Auburn and Arkansas State, and a stint at Miami, before he took over the reins at SMU.

Under Lashlee’s leadership, SMU has posted consecutive 11-win seasons and even reached the College Football Playoff during its first ACC season.

When asked about speculation tying him to his alma mater, Lashlee offered measured comments.

“I don’t stand anywhere on speculation and hypotheticals,” he said. “I’m happy, I’ve got a great job. … If it’s your alma mater, it’s easy to link names. But I haven’t given it any thought because there hasn’t been anything to give thought to.”

Lashlee’s deep Arkansas ties and coaching credentials

Analysts note that Arkansas would face stiff financial demands. SMU is a private institution, and Lashlee’s buyout or contractual protections may be complicated to navigate.

Moreover, critics caution that returning to a program that has struggled for consistency may test Lashlee’s resolve, especially in an environment where expectations are harsh and resources lag behind peer SEC programs.

Arkansas observers have dubbed Golesh’s turnaround at USF a “dumpster fire rescue job,” pointing to his ability to rebuild a program that posted an 8–37 record before his arrival.

In just over two seasons, Golesh has produced back-to-back 7–6 records and guided the Bulls to a 4–1 start, including ranked wins over Boise State and Florida.

His background as an offensive architect is noteworthy. He served as offensive coordinator under Josh Heupel at Tennessee and previously held roles at UCF, Illinois, Iowa State, and Toledo.

Golesh brings a proven rebuilding blueprint

Though not an Arkansas native, Golesh has a tangential tie: his wife, Alexis, hails from Greenwood, Arkansas, and holds a master’s degree in healthcare management.

Proponents say Golesh offers a more cost-contained path. Reports suggest his buyout from USF would run about $3 million, a figure far more manageable than what Arkansas might owe SMU under Lashlee.

Golesh’s schemes emphasize tempo, versatility, and quarterback development—attributes that could mesh well with Arkansas’ evolving roster and NIL-driven recruiting environment.

One of the key obstacles is Arkansas’ own financial positioning. Athletics director Hunter Yurachek recently acknowledged that the football program “puts us toward the bottom of the SEC in many budget categories.”

That admission raised questions about whether Arkansas can compete to hire top-tier coaching talent, especially in negotiating buyouts, assistant salaries, and NIL-era recruiting demands.

Petrino remains interim, but search widens

Adding to the complexity, Bobby Petrino currently serves as interim coach and is part of the full-time search. The veteran, previously Arkansas’ head coach, is vocal about wanting to stay but is also viewed by many as a transitional figure rather than a long-term solution.

Other candidates being discussed include Memphis’ Ryan Silverfield and Tulane’s Jon Sumrall, each bringing distinct strengths.

Observers also note that Arkansas doesn’t have the cushion to offer the highest salaries in the SEC—making the hire less about glamour and more about fit, vision, and buy-in.

The Razorbacks’ coaching board may view Lashlee as the emotional homecoming candidate, while Golesh presents a more pragmatic, growth-minded option.

Timing and cost may prove decisive. Lashlee’s ties to Arkansas and established success make him an appealing centerpiece; Golesh’s rebuilding success and lower financial hurdle give him credibility as underdog choice.

Decision hinges on emotion and economics

Arkansas must balance symbolism and fiscal reality while navigating the expectations of boosters, the SEC environment, and the shifting landscape of college football.

The Razorbacks’ ultimate hire will likely reflect not only football strategy but also the athletic department’s broader priorities — from financial sustainability to institutional identity.

For a fan base still passionate but weary after years of turbulence, the next coach will be judged not by nostalgia or charisma, but by measurable progress on the field.

Key takeaways

• Rhett Lashlee has deep roots in Arkansas and a proven head-coaching record, but financial constraints and contractual complications complicate a hire.

• Alex Golesh’s rapid turnaround at USF and offensive acumen make him a compelling, cost-efficient candidate.

• Arkansas’ budget limitations, NIL pressures, and booster expectations will heavily influence which path the program takes.