Tubby a candidate at Auburn?

There are two reports today, one from Dennis Dodd at CBSsports.com and the other from the Birmingham News that says Tubby Smith is 1. candidate at Auburn and 2. Could be hired soon.

Let’s break down the reasons that each story gives:

The Birmingham News says that Auburn won’t mind paying big money and therefore are going after Big Dogs like Tubby. Dodd says part of the motivation is having an African-American coach (curious why that detail sticks out, instead of, you know, Tubby’s actual ability to coach).

Here’s my big question: Why Tubby at Auburn?

Smith seems to be doing well at Minnesota and the spotlight is far from him in the Big 10. Sure, the spotlight won’t be on him too much at Auburn either, but still.
Why would Smith take over another rebuilding project? Just to move down South?

Also, Minnesota plays UK a whooping zero times, unless its in a preseason or postseason tournament. Why would Tubby move back to face the Cats at least once a year and have to listen to all the drama that came with his tenure? Didn’t he leave to get away?

It’s quite possible that the only real reason Tubby’s name is thrown around is because he’s a good coach who use to coach in the Southeastern Conference. Maybe the desire isn’t really there.

I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough, but the thought just baffles me.

Jeff Lebo is the outgoing Auburn coach.

After firing Jeff Lebo, Auburn is searching for a new head coach. The top name rumored to be heading to the Tigers? Former UK head coach Tubby Smith.