We are going to start hearing a lot of names in the upcoming weeks. Instead of having multiple threads about potential assistant coaches, we will make this command central for the discussions.
(January 27 - 12:15 p.m.)
Texas has hired Jason Grooms as its new Chief of Staff. He replaces Fernando Lovo, who held the same position before joining Urban Meyer's staff in Jacksonville.
Here is a portion of his Vanderbilt bio:
"The 2020 season is the seventh for Jason Grooms as an administrator with the Vanderbilt football program. Grooms is serving his fourth season at assistant athletics director for football.
"Grooms was hired in 2014 as director of football operations.
"Grooms oversees all facets of the Vanderbilt operations program, from the day-to-day operations to responsibilities including budget control, team travel, player development, office organization including staff and personnel coordination and the Gridiron Club.
"Grooms has managed Vanderbilt’s future scheduling . Grooms has been active with several additional projects at Vanderbilt. He oversaw a complete remodel of the football facilities with the additions of all new graphics in every area of the football complex, developed the player lounge and recruiting display room, helped produce a stadium facelift consisting of graphics and bowl recognitions, assisted in the creation of a player development department and summer internship program that now includes student-athletes from all Vanderbilt sports, introduced several new technologies such as iPad playbooks, Catapult testing and Teamworks communication programs, contributed on a weight room redesign, created the Vanderbilt Alumni Golf Outing held at the end of spring drills, and started the "Rising Star Youth Football camp for Nashville area youth.
"Grooms has been an active member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) since 2001. He served as president of the AFCA’s Director of Football Operations group in 2017, in a year where the group’s yearly agenda was diversity and inclusion in college football. He has been a trustee for the organization as of 2018.
"In 2013, Grooms was named FootballScoop.com’s 2013 Director of Football Operations of the Year for his contributions at Ohio."
In addition, I've heard University of Washington analyst Jeff Crosby could join Steve Sarkisian's staff as a special teams quality control assistant. He would work under special teams coordinator Jeff Banks.
(January 22 - 8:30 p.m. )
More confirmation.
(January 22 - 7:30 p.m. )
We might just be at the finish line.
(January 22 - 7:10 p.m. )
Looks like the Longhorns could turn to someone from the Coach K relationship tree.
(January 22 - 12:33 p.m. )
Almost the entire staff has been announced.
Jeff Banks: Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator/Tight Ends Coach
Andre Coleman: Wide Receivers Coach
Bo Davis: Defensive Line Coach
Stan Drayton: Offensive Run Game Coordinator and Running Backs Coach
Kyle Flood: Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach
Blake Gideon: Safeties Coach
Terry Joseph: Defensive Passing Game Coordinator and Secondary Coach
Pete Kwiatkowski (quit-COW-ski): Defensive Coordinator and Outside Linebackers Coach
AJ Milwee: Quarterbacks Coach
Torre Becton: Director of Football Performance
(January 22 - 9:30 a.m. )
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is apparently going to have a press conference (maybe between 1-2 pm) where he will apparently announce his entire coaching staff.
(January 22 - 8:35 a.m.)
FALSE ALARM!!!!!!
(January 21 - 10:35 p.m.)
A report from SEC country lists Mike Stoops as joining Steve Sarkisian's staff and he's expected to fill the LB coach spot.
(January 18 - 10:50 a.m. - Geoff)
Seventeen days after the first defensive coordinator note was posted in this thread, Orangebloods can confirm Washington Huskies defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is set to become the new defensive coordinator under Steve Sarkisian.
(January 19 - 10:20 a.m.)
According to Dave Mahler, a well-known radio host in Seattle, Washington defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is leaving to become the defensive coordinator at Texas. We'll update with more information as we receive it.
(January 18 - 6:55 a.m. - Geoff)
It looks like we might finally have a resolution coming towards the DC fire. Credit to Football Brainiacs for being the first to report. We're working to confirm this a.m. as well
(January 18 - 6:40 p.m. - Geoff)
Communicated with two sources with knowledge of the discussions involving Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett and was told that there has been zero contact between him and Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian in the last few days.
(January 18 - 1:55 p.m. - Geoff)
Just as a follow-up to the news that Tennessee head coach Jeremy Pruitt will be fired on Monday for cause, I wanted to pass along a few notes.
Pruitt has been described to me by Alabama folks as "the love of (Nick Saban's) life" and an obvious target for he Alabama program if he became available.
There has been speculation for a couple of weeks now about the opening for Pete Golding to Texas move possibly occurring in a world where Pruitt becomes available on the open market. Well, he's on the market. It remains to be seen what happens next, but it's quite possible that the news of the day amounts to a very important shoe dropping in this search for a defensive coordinator.
(January 18 - 1:25 p.m. - Suchomel)
Coleman Hutzler expected to join the Ole Miss staff as special teams coordinator. This one's been in the works for a while from what I've been told.
(January 17 - 4:25 p.m. -Geoff)
There's been a lot of talk about how Steve Sarkisian might divide up the coaching duties with Jeff Banks and Blake Gideon both being heralded special teams coordinators at their previous jobs.
It looks like we have an answer, as Banks listed "special teams coordinator" as a job title on his Twitter profile.
(January 17 - 3:35 p.m. -Geoff)
Our Rivals partner BamaInsider.com is reporting that Steve Sarkisian has made a substantial financial offer to Alabama defensive coordinator Pete Golding and that Alabama head coach Nick Saban is fighting to keep him.
Orangebloods reported going into the weekend that Golding was front and center in Sarkisian's plans and now we'll wait to see what Golding decides to do.
One source with knowledge of the situation felt good about UT's positioning as of last night.
We'll keep you posted.
(January 17 - 12:28 p.m. -Anwar)
Texas intends to add Drew Hughes, South Carolina Director of Player Personnel, according to FootballScoop. I heard Hughes is expected to replace Derek Chang at Texas.
Here is a portion of that story:
"Hughes carries virtually universal respect in college football among his peers, with noteworthy stops in his career at Alabama, Florida, Central Florida and Tennessee, where he served two years under Jeremy Pruitt before he reunited a year ago with Will Muschamp at South Carolina.
"Hughes had been retained by new Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer, but the Texas personnel job is a coveted role in college football."
(January 16 - 11:45 a.m. - Geoff)
Just wanted to let you know that I'm kicking the tires on everyone that we've seen mentioned for the job in the last week or so... Zach Arnett, Barry Odom, Pete Golding... it's pretty damn quiet.
I don;'t get the sense that anyone on the ground covering those three schools believes that there's anything really cooking with Texas.
For instance, Arnett is in staff meetings related to recruiting today. Business as usual.
Just wanted to let you guys know that we're turning over every stone. Just not finding the next clue yet this morning.
(January 15 - 7:10 p.m.)
The latest from UGA's Dan Lanning.
(January 15 - 4:10 p.m.)
Here's what our friends at the Georgia site reported on their board about Lanning:
"We posted last night what we were hearing from our Texas site about the Longhorns targeting UGA defensive coordinator Dan Lanning. We confirmed the interest was there from Sark and that he reached out. Now Dennis Dodd is reporting that Lanning interviewed earlier in the week and is a leading candidate for the Texas DC job. I have my doubts.
We have to be clear here. In coaching circles, interviews are pretty intense, with situational questions and philosophies discussed. They are usually done in person. Of course with Covid, stuff like this can happen over a phone now but there is still a difference between a full interview and calling someone to gauge their interest.
I am told Lanning was contacted, but did not interview in the classic sense. Of course, that all can change. Texas could put a huge offer on the table. Our sources out there say the Longhorns want a “big name.” As it stands now, Lanning has been contacted, but has not interviewed. My opinion is that he is unlikely to go anywhere as he is maybe one year away from being a head coach somewhere."
(January 15 - 2:40 p.m.)
CBS Sports' Dennis Dodd is reporting Georgia defensive coordinator Dan Lanning has emerged as a favorite to become Steve Sarkisian's defensive coordinator at Texas.
(January 15 - 8:58 a.m.) - Anwar
Just learned Derek Chang, Director of Player Personnel, was informed on Thursday he would not be retained by Steve Sarkisian.
(January 14 - 5:40 p.m. - Geoff)
Orangebloods can confirm that Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett is interviewing with Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian via a zoom call at this very moment.
There's no word on whether the job will be offered, but multiple sources have confirmed that his interest in taking the job is significant.
(January 14: 4:23 p.m. - Anwar)
Here are two small items I heard on Thursday afternoon.
Former Texas offensive line coach Herb Hand is currently a candidate to join USC's staff. USC recently fired offensive line coach Tim Drevno.
In addition, multiple sources have said Fernando Lovo, Chief of Staff, is expected to join Urban Meyer's staff in Jacksonville. His potential role is unknown, but Lovo worked with Meyer at Florida.
(January 14 - 11:33 a.m. - Geoff)
(January 14 - 10:10 a.m. - Geoff)
Orangebloods can confirm that Alabama tight ends/special teams coach Jeff Banks is expected to join the Texas staff after receiving a substantial offer from new Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian.
(January 14 - 9:40 a.m. - Geoff)
Looks like the future destination for Chris Ash might be coming into play.
(January 14 - 9:23 a.m. - Geoff)
As a follow up to our report on Alabama tight ends/special teams coach Jeff Banks, our Alabama site in the Rivals network (BamaInsider.com) is reporting this morning that the offer to Banks is north of one million dollars per year.
Banks currently makes $720,000 per year at Alabama.
(January 13 - 10:35 p.m. - Geoff)
New Texas coach Steve Sarkisian has identified Alabama tight ends/special teams coach Jeff Banks as a must-have target for his new staff and the Longhorns could be on the verge of adding one of the most impactful recruiters in the nation.
Multiple sources with knowledge of Banks' situation at Alabama believe that it would take a significant increase from the $700,000+ per year he's already making at Alabama.
While a specific amount of the offer is unknown, we were told that it is believed to be substantial.
There's a sense behind the scenes that Banks could be on the cusp of accepting the offer as of Wednesday night.
(January 13 - 6:50 p.m. - Alex)
We've been penciling this (BIG) one in, but it looks like confirmation is coming on Coach Flood, one of the nation's most notable developers of OL talent. We'll keep you updated with what we hear, but this appears to be looking good.
(January 13 - 1:25 p.m. - Ketch))
Talked to a couple of sources on the Mississippi State side today about defensive coordinator Zach Arnett.
In their conversations with people inside the Mississippi State football program, the word going around is that Arnett has not been offered the Texas defensive coordinator position. One source mentioned that one of the holdups in conversations with both Oregon and LSU is that Arnett wanted a level of control within the program related to the defensive side of the ball that those programs were not comfortable with. That source mentioned that Arnett has complete autonomy with the Mississippi State defensive side of the ball, including all decision-making in recruiting. On top of that, there is a substantial buyout (Between $2-3 million) involved that has also given schools interested in him some pause.
I spoke with a high-level Texas official this morning and was told there's still some real mystery involved in the direction that Steve Sarkisian will take with the hire. It does not sound like the final pieces of the puzzle are yet in place.
Stay tuned.
(January 12 - 6:20 p.m.)
Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett, a man in high demand, left LSU after a meeting today and is not expected to become its next defensive coordinator, according to that report. A LSU source indicated today Arnett was LSU's top target.
(January 12 - 11:45 a.m.)
I did some more checking on former Texas defensive coordinator Will Muschamp this morning, in the event that Texas is refusing to give up on his no from almost two weeks ago.
In talking with a couple of sources this morning, I'm told that Muschamp plans to sit out this season and take an off-field role at Georgia. He's got a kid at UGA and his youngest is in high school. It seems like his primary focus in the immediate future is to focus on his family..
(January 11 - 5:13 p.m.)
You can officially put a ribon and bow on the Dan Quinn story.
(January 11 - 1:50 p.m.)
Texas cornerbacks coach Jay Valai confirms on Twitter that he will not be coming back.
(January 11 - 1:00 p.m.)
In an article with the Statesman, Steve Sarkisian reports that he plans to retain Texas wide receivers coach Andre Coleman in the same position. For much of the last week, Alabama wide receiver Holoman Wiggins was expected to join Sarkisian's staff, but the news from today would seem to stamp those hopes out.
“Andre is going to stay with the wideouts,” Sarkisian said.
“Andre and I have a unique connection,” Sarkisian said. “I talked to him a couple different times the last few years when I was in Atlanta and in Alabama. I love his confidence, but also love his humbleness. I think he's got a great relationship with these kids.”
(January 11 - 12:20 p.m.)
Texas DL coach Mark Hagen lands at Purdue
(January 11 - 9:54 a.m.)
Austin American Statesman reporter Brian Davis is reporting receivers coach Andre Coleman will likely remain with the Longhorns.
Here is a portion of his story:
"It’s unclear whether Sarkisian will formally announce some of his staff hires, but current assistants Stan Drayton (running backs) and Andre Coleman (receivers) are likely to stay. Texas ex Blake Gideon is on track to return and work with the safeties."
(January 9 - 12:07 p.m. from Anwar)
Report from AL.com calling the Bo Davis hire official.
(January 9 - 10:07 a.m. from Anwar)
I checked in with a few sources and Notre Dame defensive backs coach Terry Joseph has a very good reputation within coaching circles.
I was told Joseph is known for relationship building, teaching fundamentals, and he has a great ability to relate to players. One source told me he believed Joseph would be a great addition to the Longhorns staff.
In addition, I was told Bo Davis and Tosh Lupoi are still in the mix at Texas. According to a source close to the situation, Davis and Lupoi are negotiating contract terms with Texas before making a final decision, but the odds of Davis joining this staff are increasing. I am still digging on Lupoi.
(January 8 - 9:30 p.m.)
Can confirm the reports from the last hours that Notre Dame defensive backs coach Terry Joseph will join the Texas staff as the defensive "pass game coordinator".
While LSU's Corey Raymond and Tennessee's Derrick Ansley were under consideration for the same position, neither was offered the job this week. In texting with a Texas source tonight about the matter, the feeling is that Sarkisian landed the No.1 target he was aiming for in this role.
I'll post more as details become available.
(January 8 - 9:20 p.m.)
Multiple reports labeling Notre Dame defensive backs coach Terry Joseph as the defensive pass game coordinator for Steve Sarkisian at Texas.
Of note, the FootballScoop report lists Joseph as "arguably its ace recruiter." Joseph spent time at Texas A&M and was reportedly an internal candidate to become DC at Notre Dame.
Also, based on his recent tweet it appears Mark Hagen is saying his goodbye to Texas and his players.
(January 8 - 5:45 p.m.)
We are hearing Ole Miss is interested in hiring Texas linebackers coach Coleman Hutzler.
According to our sources, Hutzler appears to be on the shortlist to join that staff. Hutzler was a key component in defensive coordinator Chris Ash's offense this past season.
We will keep you posted.
(January 8 - 5:00 p.m.)
One of the first really big pieces off the off-season puzzle in college football just went off the board, as Marcus Freeman has accepted the Notre Dame DC job, which has to serve as a stunning development for LSU. It doesn't appear that Freeman ever officially interviewed with Texas.
(January 8 - 1:20 p.m.)
This is a good indication AJ Milwee is out at Arkansas State and going to join Texas
(January 8 - 10:40 a.m.)
This goes along with what we had been hearing yesterday... conversations have taken place, but nothing final has yet been decided. This is a constant theme with most of the positions on the defensive side of the ball.
(January 8 - 9:55 a.m.)
(January 7 - 6:45 p.m.)
In talking to a couple of different sources about the vacant defensive backs job, I've been told that current Tennessee defensive coordinator Derrick Ansley is a coach of interest for Steve Sarkisian.
One source I spoke with on Thursday night believes that Ansley is ahead of LSU cornerbacks coach Corey Raymomd, who I will have more in tonight's War Room.
Ansley has four things really going for him.
a. He's a monster defensive backs coach and regarded as one of the best young defensive coordinators in college football.
b. He's a monster recruiter.
c. He's a Jimmy Sexton client.
d. He wants out of Tennessee from what we're hearing.
I'll have more in tonight's War Room.
(January 7 - 5:35 p.m.)
Unless Texas comes charging in late, it appears that Marcus Freeman could be deciding between LSU and Notre Dame. The trickle down to this is that it might help clear the way for the Longhorns to take Corey Raymond away from the Tigers for the vacant cornerbacks coach.
(January 7 - 3:10 p.m.)
(From Suchomel) Put this one in the "wild rumor" category, but I've now heard this from two people who run in the coaching circles so I'll go ahead and pass it along.
There's some talk that Arkansas DC Barry Odom isn't locked into remain at Arkansas despite what he seemed to indicate on Twitter earlier this week. One person in the college coaching field thought Texas was still in play.
My guess is it's just coaching chatter that's getting twisted as it works its way through the grapevine, but it's a rumor that has now popped up a couple different times in the last two days. If we hear of anything more substantial to back up the chatter, we'll obviously keep you all updated.
(January 7 - 2:05 p.m.)
We've mentioned that LSU cornerbacks coach Corey Raymond is a name of key interest for Steve Sarkisian as he looks to build his assistant coaching staff. FootballScoop.com is reporting the same thing, but added a little additional context to what's taking place.
"Orgeron is meeting with Cincinnati defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman today and stated on Baton Rouge radio earlier this week Freeman was his primary target for the job. Will be interesting to see if Orgeron can land Freeman; and if they can retain Corey Raymond."
(January 7 - 12:55 p.m.)
As a follow-up to yesterday, it looks like Cincinnati defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman is actually in Baton Rouge today for an interview with LSU.
Still trying to get a read for how serious of an option Freeman would be for the Longhorns, but he remains perhaps the hottest name on the college football assistant coach market.
(January 6 - 10:45 a.m. - Suchomel) - Cincinnati defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman's name has been floating around as a possible D-coordinator hire. Freeman has been D-Coordinator/linebackers coach for Cincy since 2017.
Word from a Cincinnati source is that Freeman has Notre Dame, LSU and now Texas interested. I'm hearing Freeman prefers Notre Dame, but money will probably be a big factor and N.D. probably won't be able to match what LSU (or possibly Texas) can offer. Whichever job he feels could give him an advantage towards landing an eventual head coaching job could also be a factor.
Random note ... this has flown under the radar, but Texas did use a search firm (Turnkey) in its hiring of Steve Sarkisian.
turnkeysearch.com
(January 6 - 9:53 a.m. - From Anwar)
I was told a name to keep an eye on for the strength and conditioning position at Texas is Cal's Torre Becton.
According to the Cal website, Becton spent the five prior seasons as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Washington, the first three under head coach Steve Sarkisian and another two after being retained by Chris Petersen. He was the also associate head strength and conditioning coach at USC in 2016 before joining Cal.
Here is his bio:
https://calbears.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/torre-becton/1681
(January 5 - 7:54 p.m. - From Anwar)
Texas running backs coach Stan Drayton confirms he will be on the new staff
(January 5 - 6:04 p.m. - From Anwar)
I checked in with a reliable NFL source and inquired about Tosh Lupoi (Falcons defensive line coach/run-game coordinator), who is a candidate to join Steve Sarkisian's staff in Austin. Lupoi was the defensive run game coordinator and defensive line coach at the University of Washington from 2012-13 under Sarkisian, and they worked together at Alabama.
From what I was told, Sarkisian does want Lupoi at Texas, but the assistant coach is conflicted. Lupoi is intrigued about the possibility of rejoining Sarkisian in Austin. However, Lupoi spent the 2019 season in Cleveland and 2020 in Atlanta, and he is not 100 percent ready to give up on the NFL at this moment.
Obviously, we need to see how this plays out.
(January 5 - 4:49pm - From Alex Dunlap)
Multiple sources have indicated things are heating up with Blake Gideon as we alluded to last night in our update (below). Furthermore, it appears that Gideon has removed Ole Miss imaging from his social media accounts. We will keep you updated when and if we hear anything official.
UPDATE: FootballScoop is reporting it is done.
(January 5 - 12:40 p.m.)
According to CBS Sports' Dennis Dodd, Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett is a candidate to become Steve Sarkisian's defensive coordinator. Arnett just completed his first year at Mississippi State and spent years working with and studying under former San Diego State head coach Rocky Long.
Also, based on Twitter reaction from Arkansas players, it appears Barry Odom will remain at Arkansas.
(January 5 - 11:00 a.m.)
As were were just saying about Alabama TE/ST coach Jeff Banks, the expectations were that Nick Saban would fight to keep him and it appears that that is exactly what has happened per FootballScoop.com
(January 5 - 10:10 a.m.)
Just a quick update on things from Alabama. Talked with a source dialed into the program and covering the potential assistant coaching changes within the staff and he said it's been very quiet as you would expect.
Saban is very much a "Don't eat the cheese" speech-giving kind of guy from the Bill Parcells School of Message Sending, so there is very much a collective focus on game-planning and prepping for Monday's National Championship game.
There seems to be a sense that Kyle Flood and Holoman Wiggins could very well join the Texas staff as has been discussed for the last few days, but the real battle could take place for tight ends coach/special teams coordinator Jeff Banks.
One source reiterated on Tuesday morning that Banks is already making $720,000 per year in his current role at Alabama and seemed to believe that Saban would make a fight to keep him in a way that he might not with Flood/Wiggins.
Regardless, Saban doesn't want a repeat of the Mike Locksley situation from a few years ago when it was perceived that his taking the Maryland job ended up being a distraction that some believe led to Alabama's 44-16 loss to Clemson in the national championship game. At least, many in the Alabama program this week.
"Take Ohio State and the points," one Alabama source told me a couple of days ago.
(January 5 - 9:35 a.m.)
FootballScoop.com is reporting new Arkansas State OC AJ Milwee will join Steve Sarkisian's staff as quarterbacks coach. We've mentioned Milwee before and detailed the connection to UT's new head coach, but based on this report he's all but officially joined the Texas staff. Additionally, FootballScoop.com also reported Sarkisian will call plays on game day and Milwee is focused on QB development and the day-to-day aspects of the position.
Also, Holmon Wiggins, Kyle Flood, and Stan Drayton are listed on the projected UT staff; as we've reported, Drayton will remain at Texas and Wiggins and Flood are definite names to follow.
(January 4 - 10:20 p.m.)
(Ketch)
Just one little Barry Odom nugget to file away for potential future reference before I get ready to shut things down for the night. Like Steve Sarkisian, Odom is represented by super agent Jimmy Sexton, as is former Texas DC target and former South Carolina head coach Will Muschamp.
It's not anything that's automatic by any means, but in general, Sexton's clients often end up working with each other and it's probably not an accident at all that two of the more concrete names that have emerged as DC possibilities under Sarkisian are both Sexton clients. Like I said, just something to possibly remember.
*****
(January 4 - 9:37 p.m.) (From Alex Dunlap)
Caught up with a plugged-in source today for a few quick updates on what could happen as Coach Sark fills out his coaching staff both on-field and off.
- You might not have realized that former Texas safety (and still very young man) Blake Gideon was named NCAA Special Teams Coordinator of the Year by FootballScoop.com during 2019 at University of Houston, a website that many coaches view as the holy grail and preeminent hub for news and rumors within the coaching industry. I can confirm that there "is interest" in Gideon to Texas, but also that Gideon (now special teams coordinator at Ole Miss) would not be interested in taking a special teams assistant position under a guy like Jeff Banks, should Sark be able to lure Banks to Texas. However, Gideon can coach any position in the defensive backfield as well, and, reportedly might be open to such an opportunity back close to home at Texas, even if the special teams coach position is filled by someone else.
- I don't have any names, but one source says that Sark has reached out to 3 different high-profile recruiting coordinators at the national level about the opening at Texas. Of the three, there is apparently one who is very interested in keeping Bryan Carrington on staff. Carrington, per this source, is tapping his foot and anxious due to other options -- including one "six-figure" job at USC that has been offered thanks to raving reviews the Trojan program has received via Orlando, Naivar and Graham Harrell.
- Another name to keep in mind: Doug Belk, associate HC at University of Houston. He's a defensive backs coach at heart, has experience in the Big 12 at WVU as well as GA experience at Alabama, and reportedly is in consideration for some sort of role under Coach Sarkisian at Texas.
(January 4 - 4:37 p.m.) - I checked in with a good source this afternoon and there are a few names to keep an eye on.
To nobody's surprise, Tosh Lupoi (Falcons defensive line coach/run-game coordinator) and Alabama receivers coach Holmon Wiggins are serious candidates to join the Texas staff. Lupoi was the defensive run game coordinator and defensive line coach at the University of Washington from 2012-13 under Sarkisian, and they worked together at Alabama.
In addition, I heard Sarkisian had reached out to Tennessee defensive coordinator/DB coach Derrick Ansley and LSU cornerbacks coach/recruiting coordinator Corey Raymond. It is hard to know if Sarkisian was just doing his due diligence or talking to serious candidates. For now, take a mental note.
(January 4 - 3:35 p.m.) - (From Suchomel) Resetting things a bit since it's been an active day.
So far today, we've been told S&C coach Yancy McKnight has been let go.
On offense, we reported earlier today that Mike Yurcich and Herb Hand have been let go (Hand would later confirm via twitter), and Jay Boulware is not expected to return. Anwar mentioned yesterday that RB coach Stan Drayton is expected to return. That leaves WR coach Andre Coleman. I believe his contract is up very soon, maybe even this month, so I think it's a pretty safe assumption that he'll be replaced.
Things are still a bit more cloudy on defense. Names of candidates continue to emerge, but you could see one or two guys retained. One person I spoke with today didn't think Oscar Giles would be brought back based on word going around among coaches, but that's still a bit up in the air.
(January 4 - 3:15 p.m.) - (From Suchomel) Some grapevine talk from recruiting circles has Arkansas OL coach Brad Davis as a name to file away. Not saying he's the guy, just that his name has come across our desk as someone to keep an eye on.
(January 4 - 2:55 p.m.) - If Arkansas defensive coordinator Barry Odom joins the Texas staff, I was told that he'd likely want to bring Arkansas defensive backs coach Sam Carter with him. Carter was recently an all-conference safety at TCU from 2011-2014 before joining Odom at Missouri in 2016 as a quality control coach.
arkansasrazorbacks.com
****
(January 4 - 2:32 p.m.) - (From Suchomel) Working to get a second confirmation, but I'm hearing Mike Yurcich, Herb Hand and Yancy McKnight are all officially out. Goes along with what Thamel reported on McKnight.
(January 4 - 2:23 p.m.)
This will not come as a surprise, but Texas strength and conditioning coach Yancy McKnight has been fired. Most head coaches want their own strength and conditioning coaches, and this move was inevitable.
(January 4 - 1:35 p.m.)
(Ketch) A few notes on current Arkansas defensive coordinator Barry Odom, who was listed by Dennis Dodd as a primary DC target for Steve Sarkisiam.
a. There's a feeling around the Arkansas program that Odom could be on the way out, regardless of what happens with Texas. He's only been with the Razorbacks for a season, but he's reportedly a potential target for several schools.
b. LSU is a school that is potentially an option for Odom and is interested, while South Carolina is also a possibility, although there's a feeling that he wouldn't make a sideways move to SC.
c. One source I spoke with that knows Odom has some questions about whether he'd fit in with the pressure-cooker situation that is Texas. It sounds like his profile is somewhat similar to former LSU OC Joe Brady, in that he prefers a little more of a low-key situation/profile. Obviously, if Texas and LSU are under consideration, there wouldn't be any running from the scrutiny that comes with ever move that is made.
Couple of links for you:
arkansas.rivals.com
arkansas.rivals.com
*****
(January 4 - 12:55 p.m.) - From Dennis Dodd ... Muschamp out, Barry Odom on the short list.
(January 4 - 10:55 a.m.)
(From Suchomel) - I'm hearing TEs coach Jay Boulware is unlikely to be retained. That's not totally surprising on the surface, but it makes me wonder if Sarkisian already has his TE coach in mind or possibly lined up. There's been speculation that current Alabama TE/ST coach Jeff Banks could be brought in (I wrote about Banks as a recruiter here for those interested).
(January 4- 10:45 a.m.)
As a follow up on the conversation last night about Tennessee coach Tee Martin, a source from the Tennessee side of things is telling us this morning that they are hearing that Martin is under consideration for a position, but isn't at the top of Sark's list at the moment. Don't completely dismiss his name, but don't bank on it, either.
(January 3- 7:05 p.m.)
Everyone needs to keep a sharp eye on Tennessee wide receivers coach/passing game coordinator Tee Martin. Among the important notes to keep in mind:
a. Martin was one of Sark's top recruiters/assistants at USC
b. Martin's deal at Tennessee expires on 1/31 and he isn't expected to return to Knoxville according to one person I spoke with on Sunday.
c. Auburn could be tough competition if the Longhorns make a run at Martin, although Sark's relationship with Martin is seen as a keen advantage.
d. Martin has a son who will be a senior in high school who is a big time baseball player. There are questions about whether Martin would want to move his son in his final season.
(January 3- 2:04 p.m.)
Texas running backs coach Stan Drayton will remain on staff, according to a source close to the situation. Inside Texas was the first to report.
(January 3 - 11:25 a.m.)
Talked to an Alabama connection this morning. When asked about the names he's hearing from behind the scenes, he replied, "Hearing Banks, Flood, and Karl Scott. Nothing for sure."
(January 3 - 11:00 a.m.)
Yet another name from the Bama staff to watch? Sark seems to be quite popular on that staff.
footballscoop.com
(January 2 - 4:15 p.m.)
Per FootballScoop.com:
"In terms of coordinators, Kyle Flood is a Sarkisian colleague now at Alabama, someone who people close to Sarkisian tell FootballScoop that Sark “likes him a lot.” Flood could be the Horns’ offensive coordinator and a key linchpin on Sarkisian’s staff.
"Sarkisian also remained heavily involved in play-calling even as a head coach at both Washington and USC, so that’s a key dynamic and one that we’re told Flood well understands with Sarkisian.
"Blake Gideon, a former Horns player who started 52 career games in Austin, has carved a niche as a top special teams coach and rising young assistant. Gideon served as special teams coordinator for Lane Kiffin’s inaugural Ole Miss squad, which capped its season Saturday with a win against Indiana in the Outback Bowl.
"Sources said there’s mutual interest between Gideon and Sarkisian to join together at Texas."
https://footballscoop.com/news/sources-part-of-sarks-texas-allure-is-potential-staff/
(January 2 - 3:39 p.m. )
Hearing that special attention has been placed on these names from the current Alabama staff: Special teams coach Jeff Banks, Offensive line coach Kyle Flood and analyst (and new Arkansas State OC) A.J. Milwee.
I'm told Milwee is considered Sark's right-hand man.
(January 2 - 3:24 p.m. )
- The biggest name we are hearing behind the scenes is the possibility of Will Muschamp joining the new staff as a defensive coordinator. Clearly, Muschamp is very familiar with Texas because of his previous tenure in Austin as a defensive coordinator. South Carolina fired Muschamp in November after compiling a 28-30 record. In addition, @DubaiBob and @TheDude41 noticed Muschamp is following Chris Del Conte on Twitter.
He is a name to keep an eye on.
- So far, nobody on the current coaching staff has been terminated. Clearly, Sarkisian will officially decide if he will retain any current staff members after he is hired.
When Herman was hired, he held a brief interview with Charlie Strong's remaining coaches before firing them. We will see how Sarkisian handles the transition.
(January 27 - 12:15 p.m.)
Texas has hired Jason Grooms as its new Chief of Staff. He replaces Fernando Lovo, who held the same position before joining Urban Meyer's staff in Jacksonville.
Here is a portion of his Vanderbilt bio:
"The 2020 season is the seventh for Jason Grooms as an administrator with the Vanderbilt football program. Grooms is serving his fourth season at assistant athletics director for football.
"Grooms was hired in 2014 as director of football operations.
"Grooms oversees all facets of the Vanderbilt operations program, from the day-to-day operations to responsibilities including budget control, team travel, player development, office organization including staff and personnel coordination and the Gridiron Club.
"Grooms has managed Vanderbilt’s future scheduling . Grooms has been active with several additional projects at Vanderbilt. He oversaw a complete remodel of the football facilities with the additions of all new graphics in every area of the football complex, developed the player lounge and recruiting display room, helped produce a stadium facelift consisting of graphics and bowl recognitions, assisted in the creation of a player development department and summer internship program that now includes student-athletes from all Vanderbilt sports, introduced several new technologies such as iPad playbooks, Catapult testing and Teamworks communication programs, contributed on a weight room redesign, created the Vanderbilt Alumni Golf Outing held at the end of spring drills, and started the "Rising Star Youth Football camp for Nashville area youth.
"Grooms has been an active member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) since 2001. He served as president of the AFCA’s Director of Football Operations group in 2017, in a year where the group’s yearly agenda was diversity and inclusion in college football. He has been a trustee for the organization as of 2018.
"In 2013, Grooms was named FootballScoop.com’s 2013 Director of Football Operations of the Year for his contributions at Ohio."
In addition, I've heard University of Washington analyst Jeff Crosby could join Steve Sarkisian's staff as a special teams quality control assistant. He would work under special teams coordinator Jeff Banks.
(January 22 - 8:30 p.m. )
More confirmation.
(January 22 - 7:30 p.m. )
We might just be at the finish line.
(January 22 - 7:10 p.m. )
Looks like the Longhorns could turn to someone from the Coach K relationship tree.
(January 22 - 12:33 p.m. )
Almost the entire staff has been announced.
Jeff Banks: Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator/Tight Ends Coach
Andre Coleman: Wide Receivers Coach
Bo Davis: Defensive Line Coach
Stan Drayton: Offensive Run Game Coordinator and Running Backs Coach
Kyle Flood: Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach
Blake Gideon: Safeties Coach
Terry Joseph: Defensive Passing Game Coordinator and Secondary Coach
Pete Kwiatkowski (quit-COW-ski): Defensive Coordinator and Outside Linebackers Coach
AJ Milwee: Quarterbacks Coach
Torre Becton: Director of Football Performance
(January 22 - 9:30 a.m. )
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is apparently going to have a press conference (maybe between 1-2 pm) where he will apparently announce his entire coaching staff.
(January 22 - 8:35 a.m.)
FALSE ALARM!!!!!!
(January 21 - 10:35 p.m.)
A report from SEC country lists Mike Stoops as joining Steve Sarkisian's staff and he's expected to fill the LB coach spot.
(January 18 - 10:50 a.m. - Geoff)
Seventeen days after the first defensive coordinator note was posted in this thread, Orangebloods can confirm Washington Huskies defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is set to become the new defensive coordinator under Steve Sarkisian.
(January 19 - 10:20 a.m.)
According to Dave Mahler, a well-known radio host in Seattle, Washington defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski is leaving to become the defensive coordinator at Texas. We'll update with more information as we receive it.
(January 18 - 6:55 a.m. - Geoff)
It looks like we might finally have a resolution coming towards the DC fire. Credit to Football Brainiacs for being the first to report. We're working to confirm this a.m. as well
(January 18 - 6:40 p.m. - Geoff)
Communicated with two sources with knowledge of the discussions involving Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett and was told that there has been zero contact between him and Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian in the last few days.
(January 18 - 1:55 p.m. - Geoff)
Just as a follow-up to the news that Tennessee head coach Jeremy Pruitt will be fired on Monday for cause, I wanted to pass along a few notes.
Pruitt has been described to me by Alabama folks as "the love of (Nick Saban's) life" and an obvious target for he Alabama program if he became available.
There has been speculation for a couple of weeks now about the opening for Pete Golding to Texas move possibly occurring in a world where Pruitt becomes available on the open market. Well, he's on the market. It remains to be seen what happens next, but it's quite possible that the news of the day amounts to a very important shoe dropping in this search for a defensive coordinator.
(January 18 - 1:25 p.m. - Suchomel)
Coleman Hutzler expected to join the Ole Miss staff as special teams coordinator. This one's been in the works for a while from what I've been told.
(January 17 - 4:25 p.m. -Geoff)
There's been a lot of talk about how Steve Sarkisian might divide up the coaching duties with Jeff Banks and Blake Gideon both being heralded special teams coordinators at their previous jobs.
It looks like we have an answer, as Banks listed "special teams coordinator" as a job title on his Twitter profile.
(January 17 - 3:35 p.m. -Geoff)
Our Rivals partner BamaInsider.com is reporting that Steve Sarkisian has made a substantial financial offer to Alabama defensive coordinator Pete Golding and that Alabama head coach Nick Saban is fighting to keep him.
Orangebloods reported going into the weekend that Golding was front and center in Sarkisian's plans and now we'll wait to see what Golding decides to do.
One source with knowledge of the situation felt good about UT's positioning as of last night.
We'll keep you posted.
(January 17 - 12:28 p.m. -Anwar)
Texas intends to add Drew Hughes, South Carolina Director of Player Personnel, according to FootballScoop. I heard Hughes is expected to replace Derek Chang at Texas.
Here is a portion of that story:
"Hughes carries virtually universal respect in college football among his peers, with noteworthy stops in his career at Alabama, Florida, Central Florida and Tennessee, where he served two years under Jeremy Pruitt before he reunited a year ago with Will Muschamp at South Carolina.
"Hughes had been retained by new Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer, but the Texas personnel job is a coveted role in college football."
(January 16 - 11:45 a.m. - Geoff)
Just wanted to let you know that I'm kicking the tires on everyone that we've seen mentioned for the job in the last week or so... Zach Arnett, Barry Odom, Pete Golding... it's pretty damn quiet.
I don;'t get the sense that anyone on the ground covering those three schools believes that there's anything really cooking with Texas.
For instance, Arnett is in staff meetings related to recruiting today. Business as usual.
Just wanted to let you guys know that we're turning over every stone. Just not finding the next clue yet this morning.
(January 15 - 7:10 p.m.)
The latest from UGA's Dan Lanning.
(January 15 - 4:10 p.m.)
Here's what our friends at the Georgia site reported on their board about Lanning:
"We posted last night what we were hearing from our Texas site about the Longhorns targeting UGA defensive coordinator Dan Lanning. We confirmed the interest was there from Sark and that he reached out. Now Dennis Dodd is reporting that Lanning interviewed earlier in the week and is a leading candidate for the Texas DC job. I have my doubts.
We have to be clear here. In coaching circles, interviews are pretty intense, with situational questions and philosophies discussed. They are usually done in person. Of course with Covid, stuff like this can happen over a phone now but there is still a difference between a full interview and calling someone to gauge their interest.
I am told Lanning was contacted, but did not interview in the classic sense. Of course, that all can change. Texas could put a huge offer on the table. Our sources out there say the Longhorns want a “big name.” As it stands now, Lanning has been contacted, but has not interviewed. My opinion is that he is unlikely to go anywhere as he is maybe one year away from being a head coach somewhere."
(January 15 - 2:40 p.m.)
CBS Sports' Dennis Dodd is reporting Georgia defensive coordinator Dan Lanning has emerged as a favorite to become Steve Sarkisian's defensive coordinator at Texas.
(January 15 - 8:58 a.m.) - Anwar
Just learned Derek Chang, Director of Player Personnel, was informed on Thursday he would not be retained by Steve Sarkisian.
(January 14 - 5:40 p.m. - Geoff)
Orangebloods can confirm that Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett is interviewing with Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian via a zoom call at this very moment.
There's no word on whether the job will be offered, but multiple sources have confirmed that his interest in taking the job is significant.
(January 14: 4:23 p.m. - Anwar)
Here are two small items I heard on Thursday afternoon.
Former Texas offensive line coach Herb Hand is currently a candidate to join USC's staff. USC recently fired offensive line coach Tim Drevno.
In addition, multiple sources have said Fernando Lovo, Chief of Staff, is expected to join Urban Meyer's staff in Jacksonville. His potential role is unknown, but Lovo worked with Meyer at Florida.
(January 14 - 11:33 a.m. - Geoff)
(January 14 - 10:10 a.m. - Geoff)
Orangebloods can confirm that Alabama tight ends/special teams coach Jeff Banks is expected to join the Texas staff after receiving a substantial offer from new Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian.
(January 14 - 9:40 a.m. - Geoff)
Looks like the future destination for Chris Ash might be coming into play.
(January 14 - 9:23 a.m. - Geoff)
As a follow up to our report on Alabama tight ends/special teams coach Jeff Banks, our Alabama site in the Rivals network (BamaInsider.com) is reporting this morning that the offer to Banks is north of one million dollars per year.
Banks currently makes $720,000 per year at Alabama.
(January 13 - 10:35 p.m. - Geoff)
New Texas coach Steve Sarkisian has identified Alabama tight ends/special teams coach Jeff Banks as a must-have target for his new staff and the Longhorns could be on the verge of adding one of the most impactful recruiters in the nation.
Multiple sources with knowledge of Banks' situation at Alabama believe that it would take a significant increase from the $700,000+ per year he's already making at Alabama.
While a specific amount of the offer is unknown, we were told that it is believed to be substantial.
There's a sense behind the scenes that Banks could be on the cusp of accepting the offer as of Wednesday night.
(January 13 - 6:50 p.m. - Alex)
We've been penciling this (BIG) one in, but it looks like confirmation is coming on Coach Flood, one of the nation's most notable developers of OL talent. We'll keep you updated with what we hear, but this appears to be looking good.
(January 13 - 1:25 p.m. - Ketch))
Talked to a couple of sources on the Mississippi State side today about defensive coordinator Zach Arnett.
In their conversations with people inside the Mississippi State football program, the word going around is that Arnett has not been offered the Texas defensive coordinator position. One source mentioned that one of the holdups in conversations with both Oregon and LSU is that Arnett wanted a level of control within the program related to the defensive side of the ball that those programs were not comfortable with. That source mentioned that Arnett has complete autonomy with the Mississippi State defensive side of the ball, including all decision-making in recruiting. On top of that, there is a substantial buyout (Between $2-3 million) involved that has also given schools interested in him some pause.
I spoke with a high-level Texas official this morning and was told there's still some real mystery involved in the direction that Steve Sarkisian will take with the hire. It does not sound like the final pieces of the puzzle are yet in place.
Stay tuned.
(January 12 - 6:20 p.m.)
Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett, a man in high demand, left LSU after a meeting today and is not expected to become its next defensive coordinator, according to that report. A LSU source indicated today Arnett was LSU's top target.
(January 12 - 11:45 a.m.)
I did some more checking on former Texas defensive coordinator Will Muschamp this morning, in the event that Texas is refusing to give up on his no from almost two weeks ago.
In talking with a couple of sources this morning, I'm told that Muschamp plans to sit out this season and take an off-field role at Georgia. He's got a kid at UGA and his youngest is in high school. It seems like his primary focus in the immediate future is to focus on his family..
(January 11 - 5:13 p.m.)
You can officially put a ribon and bow on the Dan Quinn story.
(January 11 - 1:50 p.m.)
Texas cornerbacks coach Jay Valai confirms on Twitter that he will not be coming back.
(January 11 - 1:00 p.m.)
In an article with the Statesman, Steve Sarkisian reports that he plans to retain Texas wide receivers coach Andre Coleman in the same position. For much of the last week, Alabama wide receiver Holoman Wiggins was expected to join Sarkisian's staff, but the news from today would seem to stamp those hopes out.
“Andre is going to stay with the wideouts,” Sarkisian said.
“Andre and I have a unique connection,” Sarkisian said. “I talked to him a couple different times the last few years when I was in Atlanta and in Alabama. I love his confidence, but also love his humbleness. I think he's got a great relationship with these kids.”
(January 11 - 12:20 p.m.)
Texas DL coach Mark Hagen lands at Purdue
(January 11 - 9:54 a.m.)
Austin American Statesman reporter Brian Davis is reporting receivers coach Andre Coleman will likely remain with the Longhorns.
Here is a portion of his story:
"It’s unclear whether Sarkisian will formally announce some of his staff hires, but current assistants Stan Drayton (running backs) and Andre Coleman (receivers) are likely to stay. Texas ex Blake Gideon is on track to return and work with the safeties."
(January 9 - 12:07 p.m. from Anwar)
Report from AL.com calling the Bo Davis hire official.
(January 9 - 10:07 a.m. from Anwar)
I checked in with a few sources and Notre Dame defensive backs coach Terry Joseph has a very good reputation within coaching circles.
I was told Joseph is known for relationship building, teaching fundamentals, and he has a great ability to relate to players. One source told me he believed Joseph would be a great addition to the Longhorns staff.
In addition, I was told Bo Davis and Tosh Lupoi are still in the mix at Texas. According to a source close to the situation, Davis and Lupoi are negotiating contract terms with Texas before making a final decision, but the odds of Davis joining this staff are increasing. I am still digging on Lupoi.
(January 8 - 9:30 p.m.)
Can confirm the reports from the last hours that Notre Dame defensive backs coach Terry Joseph will join the Texas staff as the defensive "pass game coordinator".
While LSU's Corey Raymond and Tennessee's Derrick Ansley were under consideration for the same position, neither was offered the job this week. In texting with a Texas source tonight about the matter, the feeling is that Sarkisian landed the No.1 target he was aiming for in this role.
I'll post more as details become available.
(January 8 - 9:20 p.m.)
Multiple reports labeling Notre Dame defensive backs coach Terry Joseph as the defensive pass game coordinator for Steve Sarkisian at Texas.
Of note, the FootballScoop report lists Joseph as "arguably its ace recruiter." Joseph spent time at Texas A&M and was reportedly an internal candidate to become DC at Notre Dame.
Also, based on his recent tweet it appears Mark Hagen is saying his goodbye to Texas and his players.
(January 8 - 5:45 p.m.)
We are hearing Ole Miss is interested in hiring Texas linebackers coach Coleman Hutzler.
According to our sources, Hutzler appears to be on the shortlist to join that staff. Hutzler was a key component in defensive coordinator Chris Ash's offense this past season.
We will keep you posted.
(January 8 - 5:00 p.m.)
One of the first really big pieces off the off-season puzzle in college football just went off the board, as Marcus Freeman has accepted the Notre Dame DC job, which has to serve as a stunning development for LSU. It doesn't appear that Freeman ever officially interviewed with Texas.
(January 8 - 1:20 p.m.)
This is a good indication AJ Milwee is out at Arkansas State and going to join Texas
(January 8 - 10:40 a.m.)
This goes along with what we had been hearing yesterday... conversations have taken place, but nothing final has yet been decided. This is a constant theme with most of the positions on the defensive side of the ball.
(January 8 - 9:55 a.m.)
(January 7 - 6:45 p.m.)
In talking to a couple of different sources about the vacant defensive backs job, I've been told that current Tennessee defensive coordinator Derrick Ansley is a coach of interest for Steve Sarkisian.
One source I spoke with on Thursday night believes that Ansley is ahead of LSU cornerbacks coach Corey Raymomd, who I will have more in tonight's War Room.
Ansley has four things really going for him.
a. He's a monster defensive backs coach and regarded as one of the best young defensive coordinators in college football.
b. He's a monster recruiter.
c. He's a Jimmy Sexton client.
d. He wants out of Tennessee from what we're hearing.
I'll have more in tonight's War Room.
(January 7 - 5:35 p.m.)
Unless Texas comes charging in late, it appears that Marcus Freeman could be deciding between LSU and Notre Dame. The trickle down to this is that it might help clear the way for the Longhorns to take Corey Raymond away from the Tigers for the vacant cornerbacks coach.
(January 7 - 3:10 p.m.)
(From Suchomel) Put this one in the "wild rumor" category, but I've now heard this from two people who run in the coaching circles so I'll go ahead and pass it along.
There's some talk that Arkansas DC Barry Odom isn't locked into remain at Arkansas despite what he seemed to indicate on Twitter earlier this week. One person in the college coaching field thought Texas was still in play.
My guess is it's just coaching chatter that's getting twisted as it works its way through the grapevine, but it's a rumor that has now popped up a couple different times in the last two days. If we hear of anything more substantial to back up the chatter, we'll obviously keep you all updated.
(January 7 - 2:05 p.m.)
We've mentioned that LSU cornerbacks coach Corey Raymond is a name of key interest for Steve Sarkisian as he looks to build his assistant coaching staff. FootballScoop.com is reporting the same thing, but added a little additional context to what's taking place.
"Orgeron is meeting with Cincinnati defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman today and stated on Baton Rouge radio earlier this week Freeman was his primary target for the job. Will be interesting to see if Orgeron can land Freeman; and if they can retain Corey Raymond."
(January 7 - 12:55 p.m.)
As a follow-up to yesterday, it looks like Cincinnati defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman is actually in Baton Rouge today for an interview with LSU.
Still trying to get a read for how serious of an option Freeman would be for the Longhorns, but he remains perhaps the hottest name on the college football assistant coach market.
(January 6 - 10:45 a.m. - Suchomel) - Cincinnati defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman's name has been floating around as a possible D-coordinator hire. Freeman has been D-Coordinator/linebackers coach for Cincy since 2017.
Word from a Cincinnati source is that Freeman has Notre Dame, LSU and now Texas interested. I'm hearing Freeman prefers Notre Dame, but money will probably be a big factor and N.D. probably won't be able to match what LSU (or possibly Texas) can offer. Whichever job he feels could give him an advantage towards landing an eventual head coaching job could also be a factor.
Random note ... this has flown under the radar, but Texas did use a search firm (Turnkey) in its hiring of Steve Sarkisian.
The University of Texas Hire Steve Sarkisian as Head Football Coach — TurnkeyZRG
The 2020 Broyles Award winner (best assistant coach in college football) as offensive coordinator at Alabama, and the former head coach at USC and Washington, in collaboration with Turnkey Search, Steve Sarkisian was named the 31st Head Football Coach at The University of Texas.
turnkeysearch.com
(January 6 - 9:53 a.m. - From Anwar)
I was told a name to keep an eye on for the strength and conditioning position at Texas is Cal's Torre Becton.
According to the Cal website, Becton spent the five prior seasons as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Washington, the first three under head coach Steve Sarkisian and another two after being retained by Chris Petersen. He was the also associate head strength and conditioning coach at USC in 2016 before joining Cal.
Here is his bio:
https://calbears.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/torre-becton/1681
(January 5 - 7:54 p.m. - From Anwar)
Texas running backs coach Stan Drayton confirms he will be on the new staff
(January 5 - 6:04 p.m. - From Anwar)
I checked in with a reliable NFL source and inquired about Tosh Lupoi (Falcons defensive line coach/run-game coordinator), who is a candidate to join Steve Sarkisian's staff in Austin. Lupoi was the defensive run game coordinator and defensive line coach at the University of Washington from 2012-13 under Sarkisian, and they worked together at Alabama.
From what I was told, Sarkisian does want Lupoi at Texas, but the assistant coach is conflicted. Lupoi is intrigued about the possibility of rejoining Sarkisian in Austin. However, Lupoi spent the 2019 season in Cleveland and 2020 in Atlanta, and he is not 100 percent ready to give up on the NFL at this moment.
Obviously, we need to see how this plays out.
(January 5 - 4:49pm - From Alex Dunlap)
Multiple sources have indicated things are heating up with Blake Gideon as we alluded to last night in our update (below). Furthermore, it appears that Gideon has removed Ole Miss imaging from his social media accounts. We will keep you updated when and if we hear anything official.
UPDATE: FootballScoop is reporting it is done.
(January 5 - 12:40 p.m.)
According to CBS Sports' Dennis Dodd, Mississippi State defensive coordinator Zach Arnett is a candidate to become Steve Sarkisian's defensive coordinator. Arnett just completed his first year at Mississippi State and spent years working with and studying under former San Diego State head coach Rocky Long.
Also, based on Twitter reaction from Arkansas players, it appears Barry Odom will remain at Arkansas.
(January 5 - 11:00 a.m.)
As were were just saying about Alabama TE/ST coach Jeff Banks, the expectations were that Nick Saban would fight to keep him and it appears that that is exactly what has happened per FootballScoop.com
(January 5 - 10:10 a.m.)
Just a quick update on things from Alabama. Talked with a source dialed into the program and covering the potential assistant coaching changes within the staff and he said it's been very quiet as you would expect.
Saban is very much a "Don't eat the cheese" speech-giving kind of guy from the Bill Parcells School of Message Sending, so there is very much a collective focus on game-planning and prepping for Monday's National Championship game.
There seems to be a sense that Kyle Flood and Holoman Wiggins could very well join the Texas staff as has been discussed for the last few days, but the real battle could take place for tight ends coach/special teams coordinator Jeff Banks.
One source reiterated on Tuesday morning that Banks is already making $720,000 per year in his current role at Alabama and seemed to believe that Saban would make a fight to keep him in a way that he might not with Flood/Wiggins.
Regardless, Saban doesn't want a repeat of the Mike Locksley situation from a few years ago when it was perceived that his taking the Maryland job ended up being a distraction that some believe led to Alabama's 44-16 loss to Clemson in the national championship game. At least, many in the Alabama program this week.
"Take Ohio State and the points," one Alabama source told me a couple of days ago.
(January 5 - 9:35 a.m.)
FootballScoop.com is reporting new Arkansas State OC AJ Milwee will join Steve Sarkisian's staff as quarterbacks coach. We've mentioned Milwee before and detailed the connection to UT's new head coach, but based on this report he's all but officially joined the Texas staff. Additionally, FootballScoop.com also reported Sarkisian will call plays on game day and Milwee is focused on QB development and the day-to-day aspects of the position.
Also, Holmon Wiggins, Kyle Flood, and Stan Drayton are listed on the projected UT staff; as we've reported, Drayton will remain at Texas and Wiggins and Flood are definite names to follow.
(January 4 - 10:20 p.m.)
(Ketch)
Just one little Barry Odom nugget to file away for potential future reference before I get ready to shut things down for the night. Like Steve Sarkisian, Odom is represented by super agent Jimmy Sexton, as is former Texas DC target and former South Carolina head coach Will Muschamp.
It's not anything that's automatic by any means, but in general, Sexton's clients often end up working with each other and it's probably not an accident at all that two of the more concrete names that have emerged as DC possibilities under Sarkisian are both Sexton clients. Like I said, just something to possibly remember.
*****
(January 4 - 9:37 p.m.) (From Alex Dunlap)
Caught up with a plugged-in source today for a few quick updates on what could happen as Coach Sark fills out his coaching staff both on-field and off.
- You might not have realized that former Texas safety (and still very young man) Blake Gideon was named NCAA Special Teams Coordinator of the Year by FootballScoop.com during 2019 at University of Houston, a website that many coaches view as the holy grail and preeminent hub for news and rumors within the coaching industry. I can confirm that there "is interest" in Gideon to Texas, but also that Gideon (now special teams coordinator at Ole Miss) would not be interested in taking a special teams assistant position under a guy like Jeff Banks, should Sark be able to lure Banks to Texas. However, Gideon can coach any position in the defensive backfield as well, and, reportedly might be open to such an opportunity back close to home at Texas, even if the special teams coach position is filled by someone else.
- I don't have any names, but one source says that Sark has reached out to 3 different high-profile recruiting coordinators at the national level about the opening at Texas. Of the three, there is apparently one who is very interested in keeping Bryan Carrington on staff. Carrington, per this source, is tapping his foot and anxious due to other options -- including one "six-figure" job at USC that has been offered thanks to raving reviews the Trojan program has received via Orlando, Naivar and Graham Harrell.
- Another name to keep in mind: Doug Belk, associate HC at University of Houston. He's a defensive backs coach at heart, has experience in the Big 12 at WVU as well as GA experience at Alabama, and reportedly is in consideration for some sort of role under Coach Sarkisian at Texas.
(January 4 - 4:37 p.m.) - I checked in with a good source this afternoon and there are a few names to keep an eye on.
To nobody's surprise, Tosh Lupoi (Falcons defensive line coach/run-game coordinator) and Alabama receivers coach Holmon Wiggins are serious candidates to join the Texas staff. Lupoi was the defensive run game coordinator and defensive line coach at the University of Washington from 2012-13 under Sarkisian, and they worked together at Alabama.
In addition, I heard Sarkisian had reached out to Tennessee defensive coordinator/DB coach Derrick Ansley and LSU cornerbacks coach/recruiting coordinator Corey Raymond. It is hard to know if Sarkisian was just doing his due diligence or talking to serious candidates. For now, take a mental note.
(January 4 - 3:35 p.m.) - (From Suchomel) Resetting things a bit since it's been an active day.
So far today, we've been told S&C coach Yancy McKnight has been let go.
On offense, we reported earlier today that Mike Yurcich and Herb Hand have been let go (Hand would later confirm via twitter), and Jay Boulware is not expected to return. Anwar mentioned yesterday that RB coach Stan Drayton is expected to return. That leaves WR coach Andre Coleman. I believe his contract is up very soon, maybe even this month, so I think it's a pretty safe assumption that he'll be replaced.
Things are still a bit more cloudy on defense. Names of candidates continue to emerge, but you could see one or two guys retained. One person I spoke with today didn't think Oscar Giles would be brought back based on word going around among coaches, but that's still a bit up in the air.
(January 4 - 3:15 p.m.) - (From Suchomel) Some grapevine talk from recruiting circles has Arkansas OL coach Brad Davis as a name to file away. Not saying he's the guy, just that his name has come across our desk as someone to keep an eye on.
(January 4 - 2:55 p.m.) - If Arkansas defensive coordinator Barry Odom joins the Texas staff, I was told that he'd likely want to bring Arkansas defensive backs coach Sam Carter with him. Carter was recently an all-conference safety at TCU from 2011-2014 before joining Odom at Missouri in 2016 as a quality control coach.
Sam Carter
Sam Carter enters his second season as the Razorbacks’ cornerbacks coach in 2021. In year one under Carter’s tutelage, Arkansas’ secondary quickly displayed its prowess as a talented ballhawking group.
****
(January 4 - 2:32 p.m.) - (From Suchomel) Working to get a second confirmation, but I'm hearing Mike Yurcich, Herb Hand and Yancy McKnight are all officially out. Goes along with what Thamel reported on McKnight.
(January 4 - 2:23 p.m.)
This will not come as a surprise, but Texas strength and conditioning coach Yancy McKnight has been fired. Most head coaches want their own strength and conditioning coaches, and this move was inevitable.
(January 4 - 1:35 p.m.)
(Ketch) A few notes on current Arkansas defensive coordinator Barry Odom, who was listed by Dennis Dodd as a primary DC target for Steve Sarkisiam.
a. There's a feeling around the Arkansas program that Odom could be on the way out, regardless of what happens with Texas. He's only been with the Razorbacks for a season, but he's reportedly a potential target for several schools.
b. LSU is a school that is potentially an option for Odom and is interested, while South Carolina is also a possibility, although there's a feeling that he wouldn't make a sideways move to SC.
c. One source I spoke with that knows Odom has some questions about whether he'd fit in with the pressure-cooker situation that is Texas. It sounds like his profile is somewhat similar to former LSU OC Joe Brady, in that he prefers a little more of a low-key situation/profile. Obviously, if Texas and LSU are under consideration, there wouldn't be any running from the scrutiny that comes with ever move that is made.
Couple of links for you:
LOOK: Comparing 2019 vs. 2020 through Week 10
Check out HawgBeat's visual comparison of this year's Arkansas team to last year's team in several key statistics.
What to expect from Barry Odom's defense in Year 1
HawgBeat crunched some numbers to determine realistic expectations for Arkansas' defense in 2020.
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(January 4 - 12:55 p.m.) - From Dennis Dodd ... Muschamp out, Barry Odom on the short list.
(January 4 - 10:55 a.m.)
(From Suchomel) - I'm hearing TEs coach Jay Boulware is unlikely to be retained. That's not totally surprising on the surface, but it makes me wonder if Sarkisian already has his TE coach in mind or possibly lined up. There's been speculation that current Alabama TE/ST coach Jeff Banks could be brought in (I wrote about Banks as a recruiter here for those interested).
(January 4- 10:45 a.m.)
As a follow up on the conversation last night about Tennessee coach Tee Martin, a source from the Tennessee side of things is telling us this morning that they are hearing that Martin is under consideration for a position, but isn't at the top of Sark's list at the moment. Don't completely dismiss his name, but don't bank on it, either.
(January 3- 7:05 p.m.)
Everyone needs to keep a sharp eye on Tennessee wide receivers coach/passing game coordinator Tee Martin. Among the important notes to keep in mind:
a. Martin was one of Sark's top recruiters/assistants at USC
b. Martin's deal at Tennessee expires on 1/31 and he isn't expected to return to Knoxville according to one person I spoke with on Sunday.
c. Auburn could be tough competition if the Longhorns make a run at Martin, although Sark's relationship with Martin is seen as a keen advantage.
d. Martin has a son who will be a senior in high school who is a big time baseball player. There are questions about whether Martin would want to move his son in his final season.
(January 3- 2:04 p.m.)
Texas running backs coach Stan Drayton will remain on staff, according to a source close to the situation. Inside Texas was the first to report.
(January 3 - 11:25 a.m.)
Talked to an Alabama connection this morning. When asked about the names he's hearing from behind the scenes, he replied, "Hearing Banks, Flood, and Karl Scott. Nothing for sure."
(January 3 - 11:00 a.m.)
Yet another name from the Bama staff to watch? Sark seems to be quite popular on that staff.
Sources: Sarkisian working to have a key Alabama assistant join him at Texas
Things moved very quickly yesterday regarding the news at Texas. First, Tom Herman was let go, and then word quickly followed that Alabama offensive coordinator
footballscoop.com
(January 2 - 4:15 p.m.)
Per FootballScoop.com:
"In terms of coordinators, Kyle Flood is a Sarkisian colleague now at Alabama, someone who people close to Sarkisian tell FootballScoop that Sark “likes him a lot.” Flood could be the Horns’ offensive coordinator and a key linchpin on Sarkisian’s staff.
"Sarkisian also remained heavily involved in play-calling even as a head coach at both Washington and USC, so that’s a key dynamic and one that we’re told Flood well understands with Sarkisian.
"Blake Gideon, a former Horns player who started 52 career games in Austin, has carved a niche as a top special teams coach and rising young assistant. Gideon served as special teams coordinator for Lane Kiffin’s inaugural Ole Miss squad, which capped its season Saturday with a win against Indiana in the Outback Bowl.
"Sources said there’s mutual interest between Gideon and Sarkisian to join together at Texas."
https://footballscoop.com/news/sources-part-of-sarks-texas-allure-is-potential-staff/
(January 2 - 3:39 p.m. )
Hearing that special attention has been placed on these names from the current Alabama staff: Special teams coach Jeff Banks, Offensive line coach Kyle Flood and analyst (and new Arkansas State OC) A.J. Milwee.
I'm told Milwee is considered Sark's right-hand man.
(January 2 - 3:24 p.m. )
- The biggest name we are hearing behind the scenes is the possibility of Will Muschamp joining the new staff as a defensive coordinator. Clearly, Muschamp is very familiar with Texas because of his previous tenure in Austin as a defensive coordinator. South Carolina fired Muschamp in November after compiling a 28-30 record. In addition, @DubaiBob and @TheDude41 noticed Muschamp is following Chris Del Conte on Twitter.
He is a name to keep an eye on.
- So far, nobody on the current coaching staff has been terminated. Clearly, Sarkisian will officially decide if he will retain any current staff members after he is hired.
When Herman was hired, he held a brief interview with Charlie Strong's remaining coaches before firing them. We will see how Sarkisian handles the transition.
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