In the search for a new head coach, the University of Houston football program is considering a number of experienced and successful candidates. Among them is Tulane head coach Willie Fritz, who has garnered attention for his impressive track record with the Green Wave.

Fritz, 63, has been remarkable in his tenure at Tulane. In 2022, he led the team to a stellar 12-2 season, culminating in a Cotton Bowl victory over USC and a No. 9 ranking. This year, the Green Wave have continued their winning ways, currently boasting an impressive 11-1 record and an unbeaten run through the AAC.

Having achieved double-digit win seasons at every level of college football, Fritz has proven his ability to build winning programs. While his age may raise concerns for some, he is in the same age bracket as other successful coaches in the FBS.

Another candidate being considered is UTSA head coach Jeff Traylor, a former highly successful Texas high school coach. Traylor, 55, has led UTSA to a strong 38-14 record and has gained recognition for his accomplishments in the football-rich state of Texas. However, his $7 million buyout may be a consideration for a Houston program that is already dealing with financial implications regarding former head coach Dana Holgorsen.

The potential candidacy of former TCU coach Gary Patterson has also caught Houston's attention. At 63 years old, Patterson is a legend in the state, having spent almost 25 years at TCU, where he achieved remarkable success. Known for his defensive expertise, he led the Horned Frogs to six top-10 seasons. Patterson's desire to return to coaching makes him an intriguing option for Houston.

Barry Odom, currently the head coach of UNLV, has also emerged as a strong contender. Odom, an Oklahoma native, has had a remarkable first season in Las Vegas, leading a program that had struggled for years to a solid 9-3 record and a conference championship appearance. His evolution as a coach since his initial head coaching stint at Missouri has drawn attention from several coaching vacancies, including Houston.

GJ Kinne, head coach of Texas State, is another potential candidate. Despite only two seasons as a head coach, Kinne has achieved success at both Incarnate Word and Texas State. The 34-year-old Texan led Incarnate Word to a remarkable 12-2 season in 2022 and has shown improvement with the Bobcats, currently sitting at 7-5. Although the whirlwind of three coaching gigs in three years may be a concern, Kinne's accomplishments and sharp football mind make him a compelling option.

Jeff Banks, assistant head coach and special teams coordinator at Texas, is also in the mix. Widely regarded as one of the top special teams coaches and recruiters in the country, the 48-year-old Banks has played a crucial role in Texas' resurgence as a football powerhouse. With his deep ties in Texas and impressive coaching experience at various programs, Banks is a strong contender for a program seeking to elevate its roster to compete in the Big 12.

Another rising star in consideration is Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein. The 34-year-old former Louisville quarterback has made an impact in his debut season with the Ducks, spearheading a dynamic offense led by quarterback Bo Nix, who finds himself in the thick of the Heisman Trophy race. Stein's experience coaching high school football in Texas, along with his impressive contributions at UTSA, has positioned him as a candidate for FBS head coaching opportunities.

The University of Houston is faced with the task of selecting a coach who can continue the program's success and elevate it to new heights. With a diverse range of candidates, including Willie Fritz, Jeff Traylor, Gary Patterson, Barry Odom, GJ Kinne, Jeff Banks, and Will Stein, the decision will undoubtedly shape the future of Cougar football.

As the coaching search continues, the university and its stakeholders eagerly await news of their next head coach, hopeful for a leader who can build on the program's legacy and guide them to further success on the gridiron.