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5 candidates to replace Hue Jackson as Cleveland Browns head coach

By Brad Berreman

TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 21: Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson during the first half of an NFL game between the Cleveland Browns and the Tampa Bay Bucs on October 21, 2018, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - OCTOBER 21: Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson during the first half of an NFL game between the Cleveland Browns and the Tampa Bay Bucs on October 21, 2018, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: David K Purdy/Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: David K Purdy/Getty Images /

4. Matt Campbell

After a successful run at Toledo (35-15 over four-plus seasons), Campbell moved on to Iowa State. A 3-9 mark in his first season was as expected, but an 8-5 record last year with an upset of Oklahoma and a bowl win re-raised Campbell’s stock. The Cyclones are 4-3 so far this year, with wins over Oklahoma State (then No. 25) and West Virginia (then No. 6).

Iowa State has put up at least 30 points (40 or more twice) in three straight games, all wins of course. Freshman quarterback Brock Purdy has stepped in during that winning streak, with nine touchdown passes and two interceptions, as Campbell has seemingly found his signal caller for the long haul.

Bigger schools are set to come calling for Campbell after the season, and that jump is a more realistic immediate one for him. The NFL could be seen as a step way too far, in a sequence that’s gone from the MAC to the mid-tier of the Big 12 up to this point, but Campbell is clearly doing something right in Ames and he could be on the NFL’s radar at some point down the road.

The turbulence that’s constantly around the Browns may push away candidates to replace Jackson. But Campbell is an Ohio native, and may see an opportunity he’d entertain if Cleveland has interest. Apart from that, he’s just enough off the grid to be a surprising and good hire for Dorsey if the college ranks are considered.

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