They aren't going to get a guy who is a major college head coach now. Nor an NFL coordinator now. Or former nfl head coach. That means no aranda
If they swing the big money ax they might be able to get a top coordinator to jump ship like Bama did with the nd guy. And Clemson did with Riley's brother.
And I don't have a reason for saying this but I really doubt you're looking at a guy who is much older than riley. He's not going to hire a 63 year old dude who has been around. Monte kiffin has left the building. Gary Patterson isn't coming.
So narrowing that down. You are looking at nfl position coaches. Major college coordinators. Or the Jim tressel route. Someone who has done very well at a lower level. Ironically Nansen at arizona would be plausible but usc fired him already lol.
Coordinators at wisconsin and oregon state. The head coach at messy state. And the coordinator at James Madison stand out for me.
Mike Tressel is not leaving Wisconsin, he came over with Fickell from Cinci.
Trent Bray is a good choice, but he's a Beav...I think he hangs out until Smith gets scooped up by a bigger school.
There are a lot of DCs at smaller schools. I dont think it'll be that difficult to pick one up.
Donte and Wylie need to be next on the block....
I'll add another name to this list. Especially since people love nfl pedigrees. Kris Richard. Was a dc for Pete. Has been co dc for New Orleans and a db coach all over the league.
Speaking of guys who were with Pete. Want a new strength and conditioning coach? Chris Carlisle who built the USC teams from 2001 to 2010 is available.
Saw this on Twitter
The Utah DC jumps out as a strong possibility
Don't think SC needs a big name hire for dc. Just need a tough fundamentals guy that can recruit tough fundamentals kids. sc
Bryant Haines
Jim leonhard. Who is likely available
Zach arnett
Doubt usc would have a shot at the dc at Michigan OHio state or Georgia
Top 15-16 scoring defense in the nation For your poaching pleasure Some of these programs are led by defensive head coaches State penn iowa utah oregon Notre dame some
May not thrill you as to competition level or pedigree Smu OHio Air Force Troy.
Start eliminating those and your list narrows fast