Why UConn’s Bold Move to Hire Jason Candle Could Change College Football Forever

Change is in the air at UConn Football, as the Huskies have named Jason Candle the 33rd head coach, stepping up to replace Jim Mora. Candle’s tenure at Toledo, where he’s steered the Rockets to an impressive 81-44 record and snagged two MAC titles since 2016, speaks volumes about what he brings to the table. But his roots run deeper—starting as a wide receivers coach and a player at Mount Union, a powerhouse in Division III, Candle’s journey has been one of relentless progression and keen football insight. With endorsements coming in from heavyweights like Matt Campbell, now at Penn State, praising Candle not just for his coaching but for his ability to shape men, the Huskies are betting on a revival built on culture and championship dreams. This hire, inked for six years, looks like a shrewd move, especially with Candle’s grounding in recruiting and navigating the modern challenges of NIL and transfer portals. Fans and critics alike are eager for the December 8 press conference, where the new chapter officially begins. LEARN MORE

The UConn Huskies have announced their successor for Jim Mora: Jason Candle, the head coach at Toledo since 2016, will be the 33rd Husky head football coach.

Candle has compiled an 81-44 record at the helm of the Rockets and won the MAC twice in that time. He was previously the offensive coordinator at Toledo under Matt Campbell before Campbell, who just accepted the Penn State job, left for Iowa State. UConn’s new head coach was previously a wide receivers coach and played receiver in college at Mount Union, the Division 3 power in Ohio where he started his coaching career.

“Jason Candle is a great football coach but an even greater developer of men. Jason will build a championship program and culture for this proud program,” Matt Campbell, Penn State Head Football Coach, said in a statement from UConn.

This seems like a pretty solid hire for the Huskies. Candle has been a candidate for other jobs in the past including in this cycle. He should be able to recruit well and handle the responsibilities of NIL and the portal given his experience.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jason Candle as the next head coach of UConn Football,” UConn athletic director David Benedict said. “Jason’s track record speaks for itself—he is the winningest coach in Toledo history with 81 victories, two MAC Championships, and a program that has consistently competed at the highest level.”

He agreed to a six-year deal through the 2031 season. The opening press conference is scheduled for December 8th.

“I am honored to be named the head football coach at the University of Connecticut,” Candle said in the statement. “UConn is a prestigious institution … has all the ingredients for success—outstanding facilities, passionate fans, and a commitment to excellence. I look forward to building on the incredible momentum here.”