Earlier this month, FIU pulled a stunner and fired coach Mario Cristobal -- like, on purpose-- after six years with the program. Immediately following the decision was a report that the university was considering former North Carolina coach Butch Davis to be Cristobal’s replacement.
Another candidate was Texas defensive coordinator Manny Diaz. Orangebloods.com reported Monday that Diaz was flying to Miami, and not necessarily to just visit family (Diaz is a Miami native and the son of former city mayor Manny Diaz). 247Sports picked up on the rumors as well and the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reported Tuesday that Diaz did in fact interview for the job.
However, CBSSports reported Tuesday evening that Diaz had removed his name from consideration for the job.
Athletic director Pete Garcia was reportedly waiting to make a decision based on Cristobal’s future employment status, per the Sun-Sentinel, since Cristobal’s buyout is determined in part by whether he’s able to get another job. Cristobal reportedly interviewed for the Temple job, but that ultimately went to New York Giants offensive line coach and former Owls assistant Matt Rhule. Cristobal could end up as an assistant coach under Tampa Bay Bucs coach Greg Schiano.
The Sun-Sentinel report states that Davis remains FIU’s first choice, though he’s already downplayed interest in the job.
Diaz finished his second year with Texas -- considered an overall disappointing defensive effort --after DC stops at Mississippi State and Middle Tennessee.
