For most college sports fans, the salaries of college coaches are one of the most fascinating topics of discussion. The salaries of college coaches are a reflection of the success and prestige of their respective programs. In the world of college sports, the top 10 highest paid coaches lead some of the most successful and profitable programs in the country.
1. Nick Saban: University of Alabama
At the top of the list of highest paid college coaches is Nick Saban, head coach of the University of Alabama. With an annual salary of $8.3 million, Saban is the highest paid college coach in the country. Saban has led the Crimson Tide to five national championships and has become one of the most iconic coaches in college football history.
2. Jim Harbaugh: University of Michigan
Jim Harbaugh is the second highest paid college coach, with an annual salary of $7.5 million. Harbaugh was brought in to revive the Michigan program and has led the Wolverines to three Big Ten championships in his five seasons at the helm.
3. Dabo Swinney: Clemson University
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney is the third highest paid college coach, with an annual salary of $6.75 million. Swinney has led the Tigers to four consecutive College Football Playoff appearances, including two national championships.
4. Urban Meyer: Ohio State University
Urban Meyer, head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, has an annual salary of $6 million. In his seven seasons at Ohio State, Meyer has led the Buckeyes to a national championship, two Big Ten titles, and four playoff appearances.
5. Jimbo Fisher: Texas A&M University
Jimbo Fisher is the fifth highest paid college coach, with an annual salary of $5.75 million. Fisher has led the Aggies to three bowl appearances in his three seasons in College Station.
6. Gus Malzahn: Auburn University
Gus Malzahn, head coach of the Auburn Tigers, is the sixth highest paid college coach, with an annual salary of $5.5 million. Malzahn has led the Tigers to two SEC championships and one national championship appearance during his tenure.
7. David Shaw: Stanford University
Stanford head coach David Shaw has an annual salary of $5 million. Shaw has led the Cardinal to three Pac-12 championships and four bowl appearances in his nine seasons at the helm.
8. Kevin Sumlin: Arizona State University
Arizona State head coach Kevin Sumlin is the eighth highest paid college coach, with an annual salary of $4.5 million. Sumlin has led the Sun Devils to two bowl appearances in his two seasons in Tempe.
9. Mark Dantonio: Michigan State University
Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio is the ninth highest paid college coach, with an annual salary of $4.4 million. Dantonio has led the Spartans to three Big Ten championships and six bowl appearances in his 12 seasons in East Lansing.
10. Kirby Smart: University of Georgia
University of Georgia head coach Kirby Smart rounds out the list of highest paid college coaches, with an annual salary of $4 million. Smart has led the Bulldogs to two SEC championships and one national championship appearance in his four seasons at the helm.
Conclusion
The salaries of college coaches are a reflection of the success and prestige of their respective programs. The top 10 highest paid college coaches lead some of the most successful and profitable programs in the country. From Nick Saban at the University of Alabama to Kirby Smart at the University of Georgia, these coaches have achieved tremendous success and are well-deserving of their salaries.