KNOXVILLE, TN - OCTOBER 01: Fans pack the stands to support their teams as the Mississippi Rebels face the Tennessee Volunteers on October 1, 2005 at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)

A major name is starting to emerge as a candidate for the Tennessee job

Is a new candidate emerging as the favorite to land the Tennessee job?

Will Mike Leach be docking his pirate ship alongside the Vol Navy on the Cumberland River in Knoxville?

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According to Football Scoop, Leach has "a very good shot at being offered" the head coaching position at Tennessee:

"The expectation from those we've spoken with is that Leach would accept the position if offered. We can further add that sources tell FootballScoop Washington State officials have had internal discussions about their plans should Leach move on (in addition to Tennessee, Leach could be wind up being a target at other SEC schools as well). In the event they need to make a hire, sources tell FootballScoop Washington State would move without hesitation to promote defensive coordinator Alex Grinch to head coach." 

Leach owns a 122-79 overall record at Texas Tech (2000-09) and Washington State (2012-present), which includes a Big 12 South Division title with the Red Raiders in 2008. The Cougars are currently 9-2 entering Saturday's game at Washington.

The website also noted that Mississippi State's Dan Mullen reportedly met with UT AD John Currie, although it is undetermined whether the meeting was funded by the university of Mullen's agent Jimmy Sexton.

Football Scoop also reported that Currie "feels comfortable" hiring Ohio State defensive coordinator Greg Schiano if necessary.