LAS VEGAS — For the first time in his head coaching career, Mike Stoops is learning the flip side of success: A spot in the rumor mill.
Stoops, 47, said this afternoon that he has no comment on being mentioned as a possible finalist for the Iowa State football coaching job.
A Des Moines, Iowa radio station reported today that the UA coach is among two or three finalists for the Cyclones’ head coaching job.
Gene Chizik left ISU last week to become head coach at Auburn.
At practice today as the Wildcats prepare to play in Saturday's Las Vegas Bowl, Stoops chuckled when asked about the opening.
“I don’t have any comment,†Stoops said. “I’m getting ready to play a game here.â€
Iowa State has not contacted the UA athletic department for permission to speak with Stoops, Arizona Athletic Director Jim Livengood said this afternoon.
The Wildcats will take on BYU in Saturday’s Las Vegas Bowl game at 6 p.m. Tucson time on ESPN. Arizona hasn’t played in the postseason since 1998.