The coach Kentucky football fans are clamoring for — And why he might be the perfect fit

Jon Sumrall has built a reputation as a skilled and passionate coach, qualities that could make him a top contender for the head coaching position at Kentucky if Mark Stoops were to depart. Sumrall, currently leading Tulane to a 6-2 (4-0) record, has fans clamoring for his return to Kentucky, where he was a player and former assistant.

Under his leadership, Troy and Tulane's teams' defenses have excelled; he is currently sitting at a 29-6 overall record, leading his team to a bowl game each year. However, he did depart Troy before their second bowl game to accept the Tulane job.

Sumrall’s experience as an assistant coach at Kentucky also gives him an edge there. He already knows what he's walking into; he’s familiar with the culture, recruiting landscape, and expectations. He would be familiar to the fans, who, for now, seem to really love him.

Sumrall is a defensive coach, and that is where his focus lies. Are you willing to take another defensive coach?

His recruiting ties in the southeast fit Kentucky’s needs, and his player development is something he has been known for at each of his stops. His ability to adapt and motivate teams makes him an ideal candidate to bring stability to a program reeling under Stoops, failing to win a single SEC game at home for the first time since 2013. Losing 11 of 13 at home in the SEC and now missing a bowl game for the first time in 9 years unless a few miraculous upsets come our way (@Texas, @Tennesee, Murray, Lousiville).

Though Sumrall’s head coaching experience is still growing, only in his 3rd year, his background suggests he could elevate Kentucky’s performance with a fresh approach. If Kentucky seeks a successor who understands the program’s identity and has a strong vision for its future, Sumrall could be a promising option.

Would the lure of being at his alma mater and coaching in the SEC be enough to lure him from Tulane, where he just landed? Are you willing to turn things over to a coach known for defense again and inexperienced in the SEC as a head coach? How would you feel about Jon Sumrall if Mitch pulled the trigger on the buyout and started the search today?