Since 2024
A former Texas Big 12 Freshman/Offensive Player of the Year, Applewhite was promoted from South Alabama's offensive coordinator to head coach in Jan. 2024 after Kane Wommack left for in-state rival Troy. Won a bowl game in his debut season (2024) before a rougher 4-8 2025 — a real step back he's looking to reverse with a nearly all-new coaching staff.
Record & context
Lifetime record26–25 (FBS, multiple programs)
Current program3rd season at South Alabama
Years in system—
ATS contextNo single published career ATS figure 2025 finished 4-8, a real regression from the 7-6, Salute to Veterans Bowl- winning debut season. South Alabama's offense and defense both took steps back, prompting Applewhite to rebuild almost his entire coaching staff for 2026.
Previous season4-8 (Sun Belt)
Compensation
Salary$857K
SourceCoach salary per USA Today's 2025 compensation database (via HERO Sports; 5-yr deal signed Jan. 2024, $825K base with built-in staff pool increases). South Alabama has not disclose
Designationreported
Confidence—
Figures are labeled by designation. Estimated values are not official contract terms.