Sports Headlines

Vols' search for Dooley replacement continues

Posted: 6:38 PM Dec 6, 2012
Reporter: Matt Harris

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Tennessee's coaching search is nearly three weeks old, and the Volunteers still haven't found someone to accept the challenge of turning this program around.

Tennessee initially contacted ESPN analyst Jon Gruden, but it was announced Nov. 30 that the former Super Bowl-winning coach wasn't interested. The Vols then pursued Charlie Strong, who said Thursday he had turned down their offer and would stay at Louisville.

Of the four Southeastern Conference schools to make coaching changes, only Tennessee still has an opening. The Vols are trying to replace Derek Dooley, who was fired Nov. 18.

Kentucky selected Florida State defensive coordinator Mark Stoops last week to replace Joker Phillips. Arkansas and Auburn made their picks Tuesday. Arkansas lured Bret Bielema away from Wisconsin, while Auburn hired Arkansas State's Gus Malzahn.