UConn Targets Jason Candle for Coaching Vacancy Amidst Job Search
UConn has successfully targeted Jason Candle for its head coaching vacancy, securing a deal amidst a competitive search. The university needed a replacement after Jim Mora Jr. left for Colorado State, following his near-selection for the Stanford position.
Coaching Carousel Dynamics
This season’s coaching cycle has seen significant movements among various college football programs. Candle’s appointment stands out as UConn faced stiff competition from Tulane, which also considered him for its open head coaching role.
Jason Candle’s Background
Jason Candle, a native of Salem, Ohio, has a robust coaching history with the Toledo Rockets. He became the head coach after Matt Campbell’s departure to Iowa State. With an impressive overall record of 81-44, Candle has led Toledo to significant achievements:
- Two MAC Coach of the Year awards
- Three MAC West Division titles
- Two overall MAC championship-game victories
Under his guidance, Toledo has averaged nine wins per season for the past four years, and the team has never experienced a losing season during his tenure.
Tulane’s Competing Interests
While Jason Candle is UConn’s centerpiece in the coaching search, Tulane is reportedly focused on LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker. Although Baker is a strong contender, there is concern about his potential decision to stay at LSU, where he earns around $2.5 million annually.
Alongside Candle, Tulane is also considering Will Hall, the current offensive coordinator, and Charles Huff, the Southern Miss head coach. UConn, in turn, has identified other candidates, including:
- Andy Kotelnicki – Formerly Penn State’s offensive coordinator and notable for his work at Kansas
- Kevin Cahill – Head coach at Lehigh with recent success
- Gordie Sammis – UConn’s offensive coordinator
Conclusion
UConn aims to finalize its coaching decision swiftly, ideally by the weekend. As Candle stands out as a leading candidate, both he and the university appear poised for an exciting new chapter in their respective journeys.
