10. Jerrod Calhoun (Utah State)
Over the last seven years, Utah State has been one of the nation’s most successful mid-major programs. However, the success and winning culture of those Aggies teams have led to their head coaches leaving repeatedly. Calhoun is now the fourth head coach during that successful stretch, with the last three humming away at Utah, VCU, and Washington. Despite roster turnover and new surroundings, Calhoun really is standing out himself.
Ian Martinez and Mason Falslev came back and are both playing excellent basketball, but there’s a lot of new faces at Utah State this season. Regardless, Calhoun came over after decent work at Youngstown State and promptly lead the Aggies to a 10-0 start and a national ranking. Utah State has won several brilliant games, including road wins at Saint Mary’s and San Diego State, and their two losses this season are both in one-possession games.
Utah State is competing for another MWC title, which only seems par for the course despite all these changes in recent years. This team was picked 6th in the league but instead have their eyes set on the NCAA Tournament. Calhoun certainly hasn’t been perfect, but just like his predecessors he’s exceeded expectations and has this program humming along. The worst news for Utah State is that he might get legitimate attention in this year’s coaching carousel.