By: Travon Grant
After a 59-24 loss to South Florida on November 16th, making it their fourth loss by 30 or more points this season, the Charlotte 49ers announced on the following Monday that they were firing Biff Poggi after going 6-16 in the past two seasons. This loss marked their fourth straight since they beat East Carolina 55-24 on October 6th. While the school is conducting a national search for a new head coach, Associate head coach Tim Brewster will serve as interim coach for the remaining two games of the season and led the team to a victory at FAU on Saturday.
While the school searches for a new head coach, the questions arise, how good is this Charlotte job? What names could be in the mix? Here’s a quick list of coaches that should be on Charlotte’s shortlist.
Embed from Getty ImagesPep Hamilton: Former NFL offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton, a Charlotte native, was considered for the Charlotte job previously. He last coached college football in 2018 with Jim Harbaugh at Michigan, and during his tenure as Stanford’s offensive coordinator (2011-2012), the Cardinal went 23-4. Hamilton has significant experience at both the college and professional levels.
Joe Cox: Ole Miss co-offensive coordinator Joe Cox, also a Charlotte native, has a strong local connection, having spent 2021 on Will Healy’s staff before joining Nick Saban at Alabama. The 37-year-old has coaching experience at Colorado State and South Carolina, and his knowledge of the Charlotte program and city adds to his appeal as a potential candidate.
Kerwin Bell: Western Carolina head coach Kerwin Bell has successfully transformed the Catamounts into a competitive program, going 23-15 since taking over a team that had only one win. Bell previously led Valdosta State to an undefeated Division II national title in 2018 and had a successful run at Jacksonville, going 66-35. His Florida connections could also be beneficial.
Bill Clark: Former UAB head coach Bill Clark retired in 2022 due to back issues but is believed to be ready to return to coaching. Clark rebuilt UAB’s program from the ground up after it was shut down, going 49-26 and winning two conference championships. His success in revitalizing UAB makes him an intriguing candidate.
Alex Atkins: Former Florida State offensive coordinator Alex Atkins played a key role in improving the Seminoles’ offensive line and contributing to their 13-0 regular season last year. Before Florida State, Atkins was part of Charlotte’s only bowl team in 2019. However, a two-year show-cause penalty from the NCAA for recruiting violations could pose a challenge for his candidacy.
Tony Gibson: NC State defensive coordinator Tony Gibson, a veteran with almost 15 years of coaching experience at West Virginia, has been with NC State since 2019. Gibson has been a Broyles Award nominee multiple times, though the Wolfpack’s struggles this season may impact his candidacy. He has been considered for head coaching roles in the past and has a strong defensive pedigree.
Tre Lamb: East Tennessee State head coach Tre Lamb has shown impressive progress, leading the Buccaneers to a top-25 FCS ranking in his first season after inheriting a three-win team. Lamb previously turned around a struggling Gardner-Webb program, winning consecutive conference championships in 2022 and 2023. His success at both stops makes him an up-and-coming coaching prospect.
Chris Weinke: Georgia Tech co-offensive coordinator Chris Weinke, a former Heisman Trophy winner, has deep ties to the Charlotte area through his playing days with the Carolina Panthers. He has helped Georgia Tech reach bowl eligibility for the second consecutive season and has developed quarterback Haynes King into a better player. Weinke’s coaching experience spans several prominent programs, including Tennessee, Alabama, and IMG Academy.
Clayton White: South Carolina defensive coordinator Clayton White, a North Carolina native, has led one of the nation’s top defenses this season, with the Gamecocks ranked third in sacks. White has a strong knowledge of the state, having previously coached at NC State from 2013 to 2016. His defensive prowess and local ties make him a strong candidate.
