Major NFL Coaching Moves and College Basketball Shakeups: February 01, 2026
The sports world is buzzing with significant coaching changes in the NFL and dramatic outcomes in college basketball. Here’s a comprehensive look at today’s top headlines and how they connect to the broader landscape of American sports.
Sources: Cards set to hire Rams’ LaFleur as HC
The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly set to hire Mike LaFleur, the Los Angeles Rams’ offensive coordinator, as their next head coach. This move signals a new direction for the Cardinals, who are seeking to revitalize their offense and overall team culture. LaFleur, known for his innovative play-calling and offensive schemes, will be tasked with turning around a franchise that has struggled in recent seasons. His experience under Sean McVay with the Rams could bring fresh energy and strategic insight to Arizona.
Sources: Kubiak to try to reach deal with Raiders
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders are in talks with Clint Kubiak, the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator, as their potential new head coach. The Raiders are looking to build on recent momentum and are targeting Kubiak for his offensive acumen and leadership qualities. If a deal is reached, Kubiak would join a franchise eager to return to playoff contention and stability after a period of transition.
Lady Vols suffer worst loss in rivalry with UConn
In women’s college basketball, the Tennessee Lady Volunteers experienced their worst defeat ever in their storied rivalry with the UConn Huskies. UConn delivered a dominant performance, underscoring their continued excellence and the challenges facing the Lady Vols this season. This result not only deepens the rivalry but also highlights the shifting balance of power in women’s college basketball, with UConn reasserting its dominance on the national stage.
Sources: 49ers hire ex-Falcons HC Morris as DC
The San Francisco 49ers have reportedly hired Raheem Morris, former Atlanta Falcons head coach, as their new defensive coordinator. This strategic move aims to bolster the 49ers’ already formidable defense with Morris’s experience and tactical expertise. Morris’s arrival could have significant implications for the team’s defensive schemes and overall competitiveness in the NFC.
Sources: ChiSox get Hicks, Sandlin from Red Sox
In Major League Baseball, the Chicago White Sox have acquired pitchers Jordan Hicks and David Sandlin from the Boston Red Sox. This trade is expected to strengthen the White Sox’s pitching staff, providing them with additional depth and versatility. For the Red Sox, the move may signal a shift in their roster strategy as they look to retool for the upcoming season.
UF dominates Bama, backing Golden’s guarantee
On the men’s college basketball front, the Florida Gators, ranked No. 19, delivered a commanding victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide. This win not only validates head coach Todd Golden’s bold guarantee but also boosts Florida’s standing as a serious contender this season. The Gators’ performance reflects their growing confidence and cohesion as the postseason approaches.
The day’s headlines reveal a dynamic period of change and competition across both professional and collegiate sports. NFL franchises are making bold coaching hires in pursuit of new identities and success, while college basketball programs are experiencing both triumph and adversity as the season intensifies.
Image credit: ESPN
What to watch next
- Sources: Cards set to hire Rams' LaFleur as HC
- Sources: Kubiak to try to reach deal with Raiders
- Lady Vols suffer worst loss in rivalry with UConn
- Sources: 49ers hire ex-Falcons HC Morris as DC
- Sources: ChiSox get Hicks, Sandlin from Red Sox
- UF dominates Bama, backing Golden's guarantee