Sources: USC offensive coordinator Sarkisian gets Washington job

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USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will be named Washington coach, multiple sources told ESPN on Thursday night.

Sarkisian denied the report in a USC release.

"I have interviewed with Washington," said Sarkisian, who would replace Tyrone Willingham. "They've interviewed a lot of people. I'm one of a number of candidates, which I'm honored to be. Nothing is finalized in any way, shape or form. There's been some communication. Nothing has been put in writing."

University of Washington athletic director Scott Woodward had no comment on Thursday night on a report.

Sarkisian, who was a quarterback at BYU, led the Cougars to a 13-1 finish in 1996. The 34-year-old has been the offensive coordinator at USC for two seasons. He was up for the Raiders' head-coaching job last year before it went to fellow USC assistant Lane Kiffin, who earlier this week was named head coach at Tennessee.

"It comes with the territory: job openings and speculation," Sarkisian said. "The key is to focus on the job Saturday and not this conversation.

"We're still playing. We're playing for the conference championship on Saturday. That's my focus."

USC plays UCLA Saturday with a chance to go to the Rose Bowl at stake.

Texas Tech coach Mike Leach, Fresno State coach Pat Hill and Cincinnati coach Brian Kelly also interviewed for the job. Washington also pursued Seattle Seahawks coach-in-waiting Jim Mora.

Joe Schad is a college football reporter for ESPN.

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Joe Schad

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• College football reporter for ESPN
• Sideline reporter for ESPN Radio coverage