The UCLA head coaching search is in full swing at this point.
Reports indicate that a decision could come by Monday or Tuesday. A plethora of names has been attached to the job — including Jedd Fisch, Brett Brennan, PJ Fleck, Eric Bienemy, Barry Odom, Tommy Rees, Tony Alford and Troy Taylor (among others).
However, one candidate is sticking out like a sore thumb.
I’m talking about Nebraska defensive coordinator Tony White.
There’s no question White would be — and should be the best choice for the job at this given time.
He’s the complete antithesis of Chip Kelly in virtually every way. Kelly was a perceived offensive genius — whereas White has cultivated a lengthy career on the defensive side of the ball. Kelly didn’t care about recruiting, the fan base, or representing UCLA in any tangible way.
White is considered to be an excellent recruiter with tons of West Coast ties. There’s also an element of pride here. The ex-linebacker played for UCLA as a multi-year starter during the early 90s. He understands the special nature of this university, the program, and the environment as a whole.