Based on reports that have surfaced in recent days, Nick Saban could be forced to replace one or both of his Alabama coordinators. Of course, “could” has been the case for the last couple of years, so this isn’t exactly new rumor ground being plowed.
Be that as it may, we noted earlier today that Tide defensive coordinator Kirby Smart has interviewed for the Texas A&M opening. Smart’s offensive counterpart, Jim McElwain, is reportedly drawing interest as well.
According to the Memphis Commercial Appeal, McElwain is now one of the leading candidates to replace Larry Porter after a handful of other candidates took jobs elsewhere recently. Mike Leach, Hugh Freeze and Curtis Johnson were all considered top targets for the Tigers, but have since by hired by Washington State, Ole Miss and Tulane, respectively.
The Birmingham News has also confirmed McElwain’s candidacy.
McElwain has interviewed for the Memphis job, but may also be in the mix at Fresno State following the dismissal of Pat Hill. McElwain was Hill’s OC with the Bulldogs in 2007 before taking the job on Saban’s Tide staff.
In addition to McElwain, the Commercial Appeal names Pittsburgh Steelers quarterbacks coach Randy Fichtner, North Alabama head coach Terry Bowden and former Arizona head coach Mike Stoops.