Before I even begin, I want to stress that I haven’t spoken with USF coach Jim Leavitt. I am merely speculating as to who will fill the vacant offensive coordinator job.

Knowing that Leavitt usually promotes people in-house, I have broken down some odds for three individuals who may be up for the offensive coordinator job (or may not).

1. Mike Canales

Canales is the wide receivers coach/passing game coordinator for the Bulls, but he was also Leavitt’s first offensive coordinator (from 1996-2000). He is in his second stint at USF and has been considered the favorite for the job since Greg Gregory was ‘released from his duties’ as offensive coordinator a few weeks ago. However, if he was such a lock he would likely have the job by now. He’s also interviewed for other jobs in each of the last two seasons — the same offense that got Gregory his walking papers. 

Odds: 3-1. He’s the favorite until somebody wows Leavitt.

2. Carl Franks

Franks is the running backs coach, but has a wealth of experience in the coaching ranks. He spent nearly five years as the head coach at Duke and was an assistant at Florida for nine years (including the 1996 National Championship season). He’s one of USF’s more consummate recruiters, and he has a way of getting the hot hand the ball during games. He could also help instill some discipline into a program that sorely needs it. USF is the most penalized team in major college football over the last seven seasons, and he helped Duke players graduate at a 100% rate.

Odds: 7-1. He has the experience, but it’s unlikely Leavitt will realize it.

3. Mike Simmonds

Simmonds is USF’s offensive line coach and a former NFL player. He gained most of his success as a coach at the prep school level, where he guided Jefferson High School to three Florida state tournaments in 14 years. He played in the Tampa Area, he coached in the Tampa area (which could help in recruiting), and now, he is guiding USF’s offensive line. He’s one of the more vocal coaches at practices, but his lack of experience at the NCAA level (he’s only entering his third season) could hurt his chances for a big promotion.

Odds: 40-1. He’s a real dark horse in this race.

Check back later as I break down some odds for the current defensive staff.

J.R.