SEC football 2023 preseason hot seat rankings: Zach Arnett safe for now

SEC football preseason hot seat rankings: Neutral (But keep an eye out)

Zach Arnett – Mississippi State

After a strong stint as defensive coordinator, Zach Arnett is now faced with the impossible task of replacing a legend in Mike Leach. While there’s still plenty of excitement in Starkville, it’s impossible to truly know what direction the program is headed in under the young, first-time HC.

Sam Pittman – Arkansas

Through two seasons, Sam Pittman seemed to be the perfect guy to lead the Razorbacks. But after a disappointing 2022 season and major turnover on the coaching staff, there are a lot more questions about where Arkansas stands within the SEC.

Clark Lea – Vanderbilt

You could certainly argue putting Lea into the “All Good” category after getting a struggling Vandy program to five wins, including upsets of Kentucky and Florida, in 2022. The Nashville native and Commodore alum has the program moving in the right direction. Still, he will likely need to get the ‘Dores back to a bowl game soon to truly be safe.

Hugh Freeze – Auburn

The polarizing Hugh Freeze is back in the SEC after a rehab stint at Liberty. Freeze is amongst the nation’s best offensive minds, is a fierce recruiter, and has shown the ability to beat Nick Saban. That was enough to make Auburn look past his numerous red flags and make the hire after striking out on Lane Kiffin. But he will certainly be on a short leash.