Five defensive coordinators to replace Barry Odom at Arkansas

We all can agree that Barry Odom receiving a head coaching job somewhere in America was inevitable.

Arkansas’ former defensive coordinator, Odom agreed to take the head coaching job at UNLV, with his introduction coming officially on Tuesday, ending his tenure as the Razorbacks’ defensive coordinator. Odom leaves a defense that allowed 29 points a game this season.

While those numbers don’t show much success, Odom coached up some good players. Safety Jalen Catalon was a preseason All-Ameican, and transfer linebacker, Drew Sanders, will likely be named to the post-season All-American team.

Losing Odom adds another stressor to coach Sam Pittman’s plate as teams go through the next 45 days of the opened transfer portal. Picking the best replacement for Odom is not about Xs and Os but also about who can bring in the big-time transfer. The Razorbacks need to not have another underwhelming season like this one.

Ed Oregeron

Nov 27, 2021; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron looks on during the first half against the Texas A&M Aggies at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

He has SEC experience, national championship experience, and was a part of Arkansas staff as an assistant strength coach in 1986 during the Ken Hatfield era. Orgeron is the sexy pick, and other schools are approaching for head coaching positions but don’t be surprised if coach Pittman makes the call.

Jim Leonhard

Wisconsin defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard is shown before their game against Illinois State Saturday, September 3, 2022 at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, Wis.
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Leonhard was expecting to be named head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers after spending five years as defensive coordinator. His alumni decided to go in a different direction, which has led Leonhard to consider whether or not to stay in Madison.