The Arkansas Razorbacks, led by Sam Pittman, have had a terrible season. They are only 3-6 and have once lost six straight games.

In four seasons under Pittman, the Razorbacks are 22-23 overall and 11-21 in Southeastern Conference play

In addition, Arkansas just needs to drop one more game to finish below.500 and forfeit a bowl game.

There have been talks that Pittman’s seat could be among the hottest in the sport. While he would likely be owed 75% of his remaining contract if he is not brought back, there is the possibility that the Razorbacks decide to move in a different direction. Here’s a look at five potential candidates to replace Pittman:

Top 5 candidates to replace Sam Pittman

#1: Gus Malzahn

Gus Malzahn seems like a perfect fit to take over as coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks. Malzahn has played and coached at Arkansas in the past and has experience coaching in the SEC, leading the Auburn Tigers to a 68-35 record over eight seasons. While he earns $4 million in his current role, the Razorbacks could easily increase his pay.

#2: Mike Elko

Mike Elko, who took over as coach of the Duke Blue Devils prior to the 2018 season, will be among the most sought-after coaches available.

He has led the Blue Devils to a 15-7 record after they finished just 5-18 in the two seasons prior to his arrival.

Although he reportedly received a $3.5 million annual contract extension prior to this season, the Arkansas Razorbacks ought to consider him if they decide to cut Sam Pittman.

#3: Jonathan Smith

Since he was a starting quarterback for the Oregon State Beavers more than 20 years ago, Jonathan Smith has a history with the team.

Smith served as the Beavers offensive coordinator before eventually taking over as head coach.

Even though he has improved the program, Oregon State is one of only two Pac-12 universities that have not disclosed their plans, so it is unclear what the future holds for them.

Arkansas could look to take advantage of the uncertainty by offering Smith a deal he cannot refuse, assuming they fire Sam Pittman. It remains unclear, however, if a rise in pay would be enough to entice him to leave his alma mater.

#4: Glenn Schumann

Glenn Schumann is the only candidate listed who has never been a head coach. The Georgia Bulldogs defensive coordinator has, however, won six national championships as an assistant since 2008. Schumann figures to be one of the hottest commodities on the coaching market and the Arkansas Razorbacks would be wise to give him a call if Sam Pittman is no longer in their future plans.

Kalen DeBoer would likely be atop the list if the Washington Huskies weren’t College Football Playoff contenders.

He took over his current role ahead of last season and has led the Huskies to a 20-2 record. If there is reason to believe that he could be hired, the Arkansas Razorbacks should be among a lengthy list of suitors.