Three coaches stand alone on college football's highest-paid list

Three of college football’s highest-paid head coaches are proving their worth early in the 2025 season. Ohio State’s Ryan Day, Oregon’s Dan Lanning, and Ole Miss’ Lane Kiffin are the only coaches from USA TODAY Sports’ top ten salary list to remain undefeated through the first half of the year.

According to USA TODAY’s annual survey of Division I coaching salaries, Georgia’s Kirby Smart leads all coaches at $13.2 million, followed by Day ($12.5 million), and Lincoln Riley ($11.5 million). Despite their hefty payouts, only Day, Lanning, and Kiffin have kept perfect records. 

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Day’s Buckeyes have looked every bit like the nation’s best team, rolling to an unbeaten start behind a high-powered offense and a stonewall defense. Following last week's 42-3 rout of Minnesota, Day urged his team to stay grounded despite being ranked No. 1. “Everyone thinks you’re the No. 1 team in the country,” Day said. “But we haven’t done anything yet.”

Ohio State’s 24-6 road win over Washington in Week 5 showcased the talents of Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate with the Buckeyes having one of the most explosive passing attacks in the country behind Julian Sayin. Their next test comes against No. 17 Illinois this weekend. 

At Oregon, Lanning has transformed the program into a true national powerhouse. The Ducks (5-0) sit at No. 3 in the AP Top 25, trailing only Ohio State and Miami in the rankings. Lanning has been known for his defensive mindset, but also found balance. The statement win at Penn State in a “Whiteout” environment was proof the Ducks are elite. It further validated Oregon’s rise as a legitimate playoff contender, but can this be the year a title comes to Eugene. 

Kiffin is now in his sixth season at Ole Miss and continued to prove his evolution as a head coach. Once known primarily for offensive play-calling, he has turned the Rebels into a complete, disciplined team. Kiffin has adapted to the new era while mastering the transfer portal.

As the season moves into the final months, it will become clear which coaches are worth the money, and the others who could be in search of a new opportunity.

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