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Sport: College SportsCategory: Coaching

SEC coaches ranked as season starts, Kirby Smart leads the pack

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 3, 2026, 1:03 PM

Last updated Aug 3, 2026

SEC coaches ranked as season starts, Kirby Smart leads the pack
Summary

As the SEC prepares for the 2026 season, coaching rankings reflect substantial changes following a turbulent offseason. Kirby Smart (Georgia) tops the list, having guided Georgia to multiple conference titles and maintaining a strong roster. Steve Sarkisian (Texas) follows, bolstered by a championship-level program, while Kalen DeBoer (Alabama) sits third, needing to enhance the team's physicality. Lane Kiffin (LSU) continues to rise in the rankings due to his innovative offensive approach. The SEC remains competitive with coaches under pressure to succeed amidst high expectations.

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CBS Sports
Key Details
  • •Kirby Smart ranked first for building a championship program at Georgia.
  • •Steve Sarkisian's Texas aims for a title with enhanced talent.
  • •Kalen DeBoer's Alabama seeks to improve physicality on offense.
  • •Lane Kiffin rises due to offensive innovation and roster management.
  • •SEC coaches face pressure to perform amid lofty expectations.
Latest Updates
  • 1:03 PMCBS Sports — SEC coach rankings 2026: Lane Kiffin rising behind Kirby Smart, Steve Sarkisian
What they're saying
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How the 16 coaches in the SEC stack up entering the 2026 season

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College Sports

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