OU's Long reportedly offered San Diego job

/> Because of location, Long could conceivably split duties as OU's offensive coordinator through the Holiday Bowl, even while transitioning to the new job.

OU is scheduled to practice at San Diego State while at the Holiday Bowl, an arrangement that presumably would be convenient to Long's adjustment.

Long, 42, is in his sixth season as an OU assistant, his fifth as the Sooners' offensive coordinator. In 2004, he was a finalist for the Frank Broyles Award, given to the nation's best college assistant coach. He is in his 11th season as a college assistant after spending eight seasons in the NFL.

Long was criticized earlier this season when OU's offense sputtered, although the struggles were partly because of injuries and youth. Stoops adamantly supported his offensive coordinator then, recounting the Sooners' offensive success during Long's tenure in several different offensive styles.

Speculation had Long as a candidate for an opening at Illinois last season.

And he was listed among candidates to replace Bill Snyder at Kansas State; the job was eventually filled by Ron Prince. But he said he was not contacted about the opening.

"I would look at anything that came along, but at the same time I'm very happy here, Long said last month, shortly after Snyder announced his retirement. "I'm excited about our program, where it is, what we've done so far this year and where it could go in the future. ... I do aspire to be a head coach, but it has to be the right situation for me and my family.

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