The University of Texas is inching closer to signing a head coach, as a report states athletic director Steve Patterson has narrowed his list of candidates to five at most.
According to the Dallas Morning News, unnamed sources said Patterson is honing in on Florida State's Jimbo Fisher, Baylor's Art Briles, Vanderbilt's James Franklin and Louisville's Charlie Strong. One source even insisted that Alabama's Nick Saban should still be considered a possibility.
All five are currently employed, but Texas' deep well will allow Patterson to pursue his ideal candidate regardless of their contract buyout. Since Fisher is going to coach his team in the BCS National Championship on Jan. 6, Texas will have to be willing to wait.
"Texas looks like they're going to be patient about this," one source told the DMN.
Since all the aforementioned coaches are currently employed and have consequently been tight-lipped about a possible move, here are the reasons for and against each of their candidacy for the Longhorns job.
1. Art Briles
For: He is widely considered the favorite given an extensive background coaching Texas high school football and success at Baylor.
Against: He signed a 10-year extension and has proven he can annually compete with Baylor. Plus, he does not need to sign with the Longhorns to have in-state access to Texas' wealth of young talent.
2. Jimbo Fisher
For: He took over for Bobby Bowden smoothly, so he could easily do the same with Mack Brown.
Against: For the same reason, taking over for one coaching legend might be enough for Fisher.
3. James Franklin
For: He has proven his coaching ability by guiding Vanderbilt to consecutive eight-win seasons in 2012 and 2013 in the grueling SEC.
Against: He may want to finish the job and lead the team to more bowl games. At the team's rate of improvement, it would not be out of the question.
4. Charlie Strong
For: Jumping from the American to the Big 12 would be a nice promotion for Strong. Plus, more recruiting power might show what the coach can do with more talent.
Against: Louisville set for a conference move to the ACC, such a change might work in Strong's favor.
5. Nick Saban... Let's please allow this rumor to just die.
