Pick 6: Contenders hand offenses to 35-and-under assistants

In this Saturday, Aug. 15, 2015, photo, Notre Dame offensive coordinator Mike Sanford walks onto the practice field during an NCAA college football practice in South Bend, Ind. Sanford is Notre Dame's new offensive coordinator but what exactly does that mean for the promising 33-year-old assistant. Fighting Irish coach Brian Kelly has always had an hands on approach with his offense and quarterbacks, and two of Kelly's former offensive coordinators are still on staff. (AP Photo/Joe Raymond) In this Saturday, Aug. 15, 2015, photo, Notre Dame offensive coordinator Mike Sanford walks onto the practice field during an NCAA college football practice in South Bend, Ind. Sanford is Notre Dame's new offensive coordinator but what exactly does that mean for the promising 33-year-old assistant. Fighting Irish coach Brian Kelly has always had an hands on approach with his offense and quarterbacks, and two of Kelly's former offensive coordinators are still on staff. (AP Photo/Joe Raymond)

By Associated Press August 19, 2015 3 min read

Offensive coordinators wanted. Only limited experience required.

Power programs in recent years have been more willing to entrust their offenses to assistant coaches who were born during the Reagan administration, such as new Notre Dame offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Mike Sanford.

The 33-year-old will play a pivotal role on Brian Kelly’s best team since he took over in South Bend, Indiana, six seasons ago.

Sanford is one of several 35-and-under offensive coordinators who could impact the College Football Playoff race this season – and soon be leading programs of their own.

1. Kendal Briles, 32, Baylor. Like most of the coaches on this list, Briles first made his name as ace recruiter. This season he will be calling plays for his father, Art. He made his debut as a play caller in last season’s Cotton Bowl. Baylor lost 42-41, but passed for 583 yards against Michigan State.