The Miami Hurricanes are officially in the market for a new defensive coordinator following the dismissal of Lance Guidry, making it “Hot Board season” in South Beach. As speculation grows over who will fill the role, several high-profile candidates have emerged. Reports suggest that Miami is already in contact with potential replacements, but questions remain about who might be the best fit for head coach Mario Cristobal’s program. Here’s a closer look at three leading contenders for the position:
1. Tyler Santucci (Georgia Tech Defensive Coordinator)
Tyler Santucci has reportedly already been contacted by Miami, according to Pete Nakos of On3 Sports. Santucci, currently Georgia Tech’s defensive coordinator, is well-known to Miami after engineering a strong defensive performance against the Hurricanes earlier this season—a game that left a significant blemish on Miami’s resume.
Santucci’s career has been on a fast trajectory, having served as Duke’s defensive coordinator and linebackers coach in 2023 before moving to Georgia Tech in 2024. If he were to take the Miami job, it would mark his third coaching position in as many years. While this might raise questions about stability, his defensive acumen and ability to disrupt opposing offenses make him a compelling candidate. Georgia Tech could, however, try to retain him with an enticing counteroffer.
2. Bryant Haines (Indiana Defensive Coordinator)
While it might seem unusual to consider poaching a coach from Indiana, Bryant Haines is a name that has quietly gained traction. Haines played a key role in Indiana’s remarkable turnaround under head coach Curt Cignetti, helping to guide the Hoosiers’ defense through a challenging Big Ten schedule. His unit stood strong against most conference opponents, with only a few top-tier teams managing to break through.
However, there are challenges to luring Haines to Miami. Indiana holds a special place in his career—he began his coaching journey as a graduate assistant there, making the program a natural home for him. Convincing him to leave a place of personal and professional significance could prove difficult, even for a program with the prestige and resources of Miami.
3. Tim Banks (Tennessee Defensive Coordinator)
Tennessee’s Tim Banks is another prominent name linked to the Miami opening. Banks has been Tennessee’s defensive coordinator since 2021, overseeing one of the nation’s most dominant defenses. Known for a relentless pass rush and a robust front seven, Banks has consistently built units capable of shutting down both aerial and ground attacks. His experience in the SEC, where week-to-week competition is among the toughest in college football, adds significant appeal to his candidacy.
Banks would likely be the most expensive option on Miami’s list, but his track record suggests he might also be the best hire. His ability to build and sustain an elite defense could align well with Miami’s aspirations to compete at the highest level of college football. However, prying him away from Tennessee could require a substantial financial commitment.
What’s Next for Miami?
The search for a new defensive coordinator is just beginning, and Miami will undoubtedly consider a range of options beyond these three names. The decision will hinge on several factors, including the candidate’s defensive philosophy, recruiting connections, and ability to integrate into Cristobal’s system. Additionally, the Hurricanes will need to move quickly, as competition for top coaching talent tends to heat up rapidly during the offseason.
With SEC play and national prominence as the program’s long-term goals, this hire represents a critical opportunity for Miami to solidify its defensive identity. Whether they go with an up-and-comer like Santucci, a proven tactician like Haines, or an established SEC force like Banks, the Hurricanes’ choice will have lasting implications for the program’s future.
