The SMU Mustangs' Rhett Lashlee signed a two-year extension with the program through the 2032 season, which makes him one of the richest head coaches in college football. That doesn't have Razorbackers' Ryan Guthrie believing the Lashlee dream is dead in Fayetteville.
Lashlee has long been one of the Hogs' top targets in their coaching search since the University of Arkansas fired Sam Pittman. His recent extension and negotiated buyout was perceived to be the end of the rumors, but Guthrie sees it as an extra obstacle to get Lashlee on the Hogs' sidelines.
"If there’s a 'dream fit' in this cycle for Arkansas, it’s Rhett Lashlee," Guthrie prefaced before saying, "A Springdale, Arkansas native and former Razorback quarterback (2002–2004), Lashlee’s ties to the state run deep. His coaching resume has steadily built credibility, from his time as an offensive coordinator under Gus Malzahn to now leading SMU into national relevance.
"Even after signing a contract extension with the Mustangs, Lashlee’s combination of hometown roots, offensive pedigree, and familiarity with Arkansas’ culture make him the clear top target.
"The SEC’s money and brand power can change minds quickly, and for a coach who grew up dreaming in cardinal and white, returning home to lead Arkansas might be too tempting to ignore."
The SEC's brand power is strong, but SMU's pockets are deep. If Lashlee has a vision for what he wants for his Mustangs team, and certainly, he's earned it with the program's College Football Playoff appearance during their first year in the ACC, the donor base has the capital to deliver it. Certainly, there's a higher ceiling in Dallas, Texas, than anywhere in Arkansas. If fans get invested, and there's a Pony movement in the Metroplex, SMU could reach unforeseen heights.
Lashlee might not want to leave an easy playing field in the ACC to be at one of the toughest places to win in the SEC.
The Mustangs invested big in him, so jumping to the Hogs could have some questioning his loyalty down the line should other jobs he's interested in pop up. Go to Arkansas now, and Lashlee may have to stay there for a while and win big before getting a better job.
We'll see what he chooses. Staying at SMU is still the most likely outcome. Even if he's a glove fit for his home state.