UConn Hires Jason Candle as New Head Football Coach

The University of Connecticut has officially named Jason Candle as its new head football coach, replacing Jim Mora, who departed to lead Colorado State. Candle comes to Storrs after nearly a decade at Toledo, where he established himself as a successful and respected leader in college football.

Candle’s resume includes an 8-4 season in 2025 and a bowl victory over Pittsburgh in 2024, making him a standout candidate among Group of 5 coaching prospects. UConn officials were drawn to his combination of winning experience and reputation for developing players both on and off the field.

In a statement, Candle expressed gratitude for the opportunity and emphasized his commitment to building a program that balances competitive success with character development. He highlighted UConn’s facilities, fan support, and potential as key factors in his decision to join the Huskies.

The Huskies concluded 2025 with nine wins, a solid showing for an independent program. Candle now inherits a team looking to build on that momentum and elevate UConn football to new levels of competitiveness.

1. Coaching Background and Achievements

Jason Candle spent most of his career at Toledo, progressing from assistant roles to head coach, and cementing his reputation as a program builder. During his tenure, he guided the Rockets to two MAC championships in 2017 and 2022 and achieved multiple winning seasons. Before becoming Toledo’s head coach, Candle was an assistant under Matt Campbell, who later moved to Iowa State and is now at Penn State. Candle also coached at Division III Mount Union, gaining experience at multiple levels of the game. Candle is widely recognized not only for his on-field success but also for his ability to mentor student-athletes and build a strong team culture. His leadership skills were praised by Matt Campbell, who called him a “great developer of men” capable of creating a championship program. The combination of strategic acumen, consistent results, and emphasis on character development makes Candle a strong fit for UConn as it seeks stability and growth in its independent football schedule.

2. UConn Football Context and Challenges

UConn football operates as an independent after leaving the American Athletic Conference, presenting unique scheduling and recruiting challenges. The Huskies have experienced fluctuating results in recent years, but the 2025 season’s nine wins indicate potential for growth under strong leadership. Candle inherits a program with a solid foundation but also faces the task of maintaining momentum and improving consistency. Recruiting, player development, and competitive scheduling will be critical areas of focus in the coming seasons. As an independent, UConn must compete for attention and talent without the structure of a conference, requiring a coach who can attract high-quality recruits and develop depth across the roster. Candle’s proven record at Toledo and connections in the coaching community give him an advantage in navigating these challenges. Balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term program-building will be a key focus, as Candle works to establish a sustainable model for success in Storrs.

3. Vision for the Future

Candle has signed a six-year contract with UConn, signaling a commitment to long-term program development. He plans to leverage the school’s facilities, fan base, and recruiting potential to elevate the Huskies into consistent postseason contenders. His vision emphasizes both on-field success and off-field development, fostering a culture where student-athletes excel academically, athletically, and personally. Candle’s holistic approach is expected to resonate with players, staff, and supporters alike. The coaching staff will be a critical component of his strategy, with an emphasis on building a cohesive team capable of competing against independent opponents and eventually challenging for national recognition. With Candle at the helm, UConn aims to establish stability, improve performance, and build a winning culture that can sustain success for years to come.