The Next BYU Football Coach: Analyzing Risk, Reward in Candidates

Dec 23, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego State Aztecs coach Rocky Long (left) and Navy Midshipmen coach Ken Niumatalolo before the 2014 Poinsettia Bowl at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Ken Niumatalolo is gaining steam in BYU’s coaching search, and for good reason. Coach Niumatalolo is currently Navy’s coach, and would do a great job with keeping the BYU program in line with its mission, as he has shown to have great character and values (Meet the Mormons ,…).

Additionally, Ken Niumatalolo very well respected, and would definitely bring some new light and national focus on the university. What other head coach has been able to meet annually with the US President?

Niumatalolo also knows what it’s like to have to manage recruiting under different and difficult circumstances. He would actually have some more freedom with recruiting at BYU.

Overall, Niumatalolo would end up as a high reward as the BYU Football coach because he’s a winner and has experience to bring with him.

The possible downsides of Niumatalolo have been shared widely. First, he may expect a fairly higher sum of money than many candidates, but it should be manageable. Second, what offense will he run, and will the team fully back up his vision and scheme? Many BYU fans seem like they would be disgusted if he ends up bringing the option style from Navy.

Likewise, if an option-like offense is brought to BYU, would Tanner Mangum continue to flourish as the quarterback? Would Taysom Hill be more likely to start under Niumatalolo, as opposed to Tanner?

Niumatalolo comes to Provo on Monday to discuss the potential coaching job.

Next: Kalani Sitake