Arkansas is close to wrapping up its search for a new head coach. South Florida’s Alex Golesh is now the leading candidate.
Reports have been all over the place—some say Golesh has already agreed, while others claim talks are still happening. As the weekend gets closer, there’s growing hope that a deal is just about done.
If things fall apart, Alabama defensive coordinator Kane Wommack is waiting in the wings as a backup. Meanwhile, South Florida’s athletic department has confirmed that Golesh has been approached by other programs, but they’re not naming names.
Golesh has put together a strong run at South Florida, guiding the Bulls to an 8-3 record this year.
Arkansas’ Head Coaching Search Nears Conclusion
Right now, Arkansas is focused on filling its head coaching spot, and all signs point to Alex Golesh. There’s plenty of chatter about where things stand, but he’s definitely the top choice.
John Talty from CBS Sports says Golesh hasn’t given a final yes yet, but there’s a real sense that something will get done by the weekend.
Conflicting Reports and Negotiations
On Wednesday, some outlets reported Golesh had accepted the Arkansas job. Others pushed back, saying negotiations were still deep in progress and nothing was final.
This back-and-forth has left fans and analysts scratching their heads. According to Talty, Golesh is still thinking things over and has told people close to him that he’ll decide by the weekend.
Backup Plan: Kane Wommack
If Golesh doesn’t sign, Arkansas is looking at Kane Wommack from Alabama as their next option. Wommack’s been turning heads in the coaching world, especially for his work on defense.
Still, Arkansas is putting all its energy into landing Golesh first.
Wommack’s Credentials
Wommack has built a solid reputation as a top defensive coach. What he’s done with Alabama’s defense is impressive, and he’d bring a lot of experience to Arkansas.
Even though Golesh is the main target, having someone like Wommack in the conversation isn’t a bad backup.
Golesh’s Tenure at South Florida
Alex Golesh has been at South Florida for three years and, honestly, he’s done well. After back-to-back 7-6 seasons with bowl wins, he’s got the Bulls sitting at 8-3 this year.
South Florida is now chasing its first 9-win season since 2017. They’ll take on Rice this Saturday.
Season Highlights
- 2019: 7-6 record with a bowl victory
- 2020: 7-6 record with a bowl victory
- 2021: 8-3 record so far, with a shot at nine wins
Golesh has really turned things around for the Bulls, and that hasn’t gone unnoticed. Arkansas clearly wants that kind of success in Fayetteville.
South Florida’s Response
South Florida’s CEO of athletics put out a statement confirming that Golesh has been contacted by other programs. They didn’t say who, but they did mention Golesh is keeping the USF administration in the loop.
People around the program seem to appreciate the openness. It’s not always easy to get that kind of communication in these situations.
Maintaining Focus
Even with all the outside noise, Golesh has kept his team focused. South Florida is gearing up for a big game against Rice, and his leadership has really helped the team stay on track.
That ability to tune out distractions is one more reason Arkansas is so interested in him.
What’s Next for Arkansas?
The weekend’s almost here, and everyone’s watching to see what happens between Arkansas and Golesh. There’s cautious optimism, but nothing’s official until it’s official.
The Razorbacks are ready to move forward and start prepping for next season—just waiting for that final word.
Key Points to Watch
- Final decision expected by the weekend.
- Backup plan involves Alabama defensive coordinator Kane Wommack.
- South Florida’s game against Rice could impact the timing of the announcement.
For more details, check Saturday Down South. There might be more updates soon, so it’s worth keeping an eye out.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
