The Strange Reality of College Football Salaries
It’s a peculiar quirk of the college football world: calling someone “underpaid” when they’re raking in six, or even seven figures. Yet, here we are. The truth is, in the fiercely competitive arena of college football, where national championships are the ultimate prize, success isn’t just about passion or skill—it’s also about investment. And that means schools looking to go the distance need to open their wallets.
Relativity Matters: $800,000 Is Not the Ceiling
Sure, the average person would be thrilled to see a paycheck north of $800,000. However, in the context of college football’s high-stakes environment, it’s all relative. Assistant coaches, often the unsung heroes of their teams, play a pivotal role in shaping their squads into contenders. This list showcases some of the most underpaid assistants in the game, especially when you factor in their talent, track record, and the value they bring to their programs.
Let’s not forget about the relentless grind these coaches face. From breaking down NFL-caliber plays to crunching college sports statistics, these individuals live and breathe football. Every day, they’re helping to craft strategies, recruit top talent, and elevate programs to new heights.
A Career Worth More: Tosh Lupoi's Case
Take Tosh Lupoi, Oregon’s defensive coordinator. With over a decade of stellar recruiting under his belt, Lupoi has consistently signed elite players, no matter where he’s worked. His ability to attract top talent alone makes him a prized asset, but this season, he’s added another feather to his cap by building one of the country’s premier defenses. Yes, Lupoi earns a substantial salary at $1.9 million, but given his contributions, it’s safe to say he’s still underpaid.
With the undefeated Oregon Ducks sitting at the top seed in the playoffs and poised to chase their first national championship, Lupoi has more than proven his worth. If Oregon wins the title, don’t be surprised if his recruiting magic takes the Ducks to an even higher echelon. And if the school doesn’t step up his paycheck soon, you can bet other programs will come knocking.
The Quick Fix: Pay Up or Lose Out
The easiest way for schools to ensure they don’t lose their top assistants? Give them a raise—quickly. These five assistants, in particular, are prime candidates for significant pay bumps. Their work has not only transformed their teams but also attracted attention from rival programs eager to lure them away. Let’s dive into the details of these coaching standouts.
1. Bryant Haines, Defensive Coordinator, Indiana
- Current Compensation: $1.175 million
Who saw this coming? Indiana, a school synonymous with basketball, now boasts one of the top defenses in college football. With a No. 2 overall defensive ranking, the Hoosiers allowed just under 245 total yards per game this season. They’ve gone from a dismal 3-9 record last year to an impressive 11-1, even snagging a spot in the first 12-team College Football Playoff.
Haines orchestrated this remarkable turnaround, and it’s clear he’s in line for a substantial raise. His defensive acumen has not only changed the team’s trajectory but also reshaped expectations for Indiana football.
2. Joey Halzle, Offensive Coordinator, Tennessee
- Current Compensation: $850,000
Here’s a head-scratcher: How is Halzle not making at least $1 million yet? Tennessee entered the season ranked No. 15, with solid but modest expectations. Fast forward, and the Vols are now playoff-bound, powered by the nation’s No. 9-ranked offense.
Tennessee’s ground game, in particular, has been a revelation, with running back Dylan Sampson leading a rushing attack that averages 232 yards per game. Halzle has effectively turned Tennessee into a powerhouse, and with an enthusiastic booster base hungry for continued success, a pay bump is practically guaranteed.
3. Marcus Arroyo, Offensive Coordinator, Arizona State
- Current Compensation: $830,000
Arizona State’s rise to prominence is one of the season’s best stories. Once a struggling program, ASU has punched its ticket to the College Football Playoff for the first time ever. Arroyo’s role in the team’s 11-2 record cannot be overstated, even if the offense ranks a modest 45th nationally.
Recognizing his impact, ASU has already taken steps to secure Arroyo’s future, signing him to a new contract that will push his salary to $1.2 million starting next year. It’s a well-deserved bump for a coach who’s helped redefine expectations for the Sun Devils.
4. Pat Shurmur, Offensive Coordinator, Colorado
- Current Compensation: $801,000
Talk about a comeback story. Just two years ago, Colorado posted a dismal 1-11 record. This season, they’ve gone 9-3 and narrowly missed a playoff spot, thanks in large part to Shurmur’s offensive brilliance.
Under Shurmur, the Buffs have climbed to No. 4 nationally in passing offense, averaging over 327 yards per game. With Heisman frontrunner Travis Hunter leading the charge, Shurmur’s contributions to Colorado’s resurgence are undeniable. Head coach Deion Sanders knows talent when he sees it, and he’ll undoubtedly push for Shurmur to be rewarded handsomely.
5. Tosh Lupoi, Defensive Coordinator, Oregon
- Current Compensation: $1.9 million
It’s worth reiterating just how instrumental Lupoi has been to Oregon’s dominance this season. The Ducks not only secured the Big Ten title but also finished No. 7 in total defense. Their remarkable success is a testament to Lupoi’s strategic mind and his ability to motivate and develop players.
Lupoi’s reputation as a top recruiter has also paid dividends, with Oregon landing the No. 8 recruiting class for 2025. With a national championship potentially on the horizon, it’s clear that Lupoi deserves a significant raise—and fast.
Why These Raises Are Crucial
College football isn’t just a sport; it’s a high-stakes business. Schools willing to invest in their coaching staff stand a better chance of achieving sustained success. The assistants on this list have proven their worth and then some, often outperforming their current paychecks by a wide margin.
As the offseason approaches, programs will undoubtedly evaluate their budgets. For these coaches, the message should be clear: their contributions are invaluable, and it’s time they’re paid like it.
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