Memphis Coaching Search:
It appears Memphis is down to their finalists for their head coaching opening. Jim McElwain (OC Alabama) is the most talked about candidate and appears to be the favorite. He has done a nice job while running the Crimson Tide offense the past three seasons. The second candidate isn’t confirmed and I am hearing contradicting reports. Some believe the second candidate is former Memphis offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner (QB Steelers) or former Arizona head coach Mike Stoops. Then I am also hearing Memphis interviewed Justin Fuente (Co-OC Texas Christian) and they came away extremely impressed. It appears Memphis may be in the final stages of their coaching search and McElwain seems to be the likely favorite. Expect a decision soon…with all the crazy things happening in contract negotiations this week, don’t be surprised at the last minute McElwain backs out (Fresno State? Arizona State?) then expect Fuente or Fichtner to be the primary target.
UPDATE**Memphis Coaching Search:
Justin Fuente has been named the new head coach at Memphis. Jim McElwain (the overwhelming favorite the last 24 hours) apparently accepted the job and contract yesterday. He then today reneged on the contract offer and as a result Memphis decided to end contract negotiations. Memphis brass held an emergency meeting at 5:00 p.m. to decide the future of the search and they decided to extend an offer to Justin Fuente who in return accepted. Here is a bio for those interested in Fuente’s resume:
Memphis Head Coach
Justin Fuente
Hometown: Tulsa, OK
Coaching Experience:
1996-1997 QB Oklahoma
1998-1999 QB Murray State (KY)
2002-2004 QB Coach Illinois State
2005-2007 OC/QB Coach Illinois State
2008 RB Coach Texas Christian
2009-2011 Co-OC/QB Coach TCU
Expect Galen Scott to be retained from Larry Porter’s staff (he played at Illinois State) as he was defensive coordinator at Illinois State the same time Fuente was OC. They coached under Denver Johnson (Tulsa OL Coach).
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