Could Missouri coach Gary Pinkel, who is having one of the best coaching seasons in his Missouri tenure, have an eye on the Washington job?
Following his press conference Monday, Pinkel was asked if he’d have any interest in the vacancy that was made by coach Steve Sarkisian’s decision to return to USC.
“Press conference is over,” Pinkel told CBSSports.com. According to the website, Pinkel noted that the question should have been asked during the official media conference.
When the job came open Monday, Pinkel’s name was mentioned because of his ties to the school. Pinkel spent 13 years (1976, 1979-1990) with the Huskies coaching tight ends, wide receivers and as the offensive coordinator under mentor Don James. James passed away on Oct. 20 following a battle with cancer.
However, Pinkel is not considered among the favorites for the Huskies head position. many are linking Boise State's Chris Petersen and UCLA's Jim Mora to the job.
Missouri athletic director Mike Alden said he hadn’t been contacted by Washington wanting to speak with Pinkel.
Still, it’s an interesting prospect. Pinkel's strong connection with James would make returning to Washington a sentimental homecoming of sorts if the Huskies come calling. And that would be the only reason to leave a top 5 team for one that's won eight games just once since 2001.
- - - - - - -
Graham Watson is the editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email her at dr.saturday@ymail.com or follow her on Twitter!Follow @YahooDrSaturday