Houston Nutt Done at Ole Miss: The Top 5 Candidates to Replace Him in 2012

We all knew Houston Nutt was heading out of Ole Miss; it was just a matter of time. Nutt has a 24-23 record in three-and-a-half seasons at the University, but it's his 2-7 record this season that may have been the last straw.

It's being reported now that Houston Nutt will in fact be let go at the end of the season.

So, let's waste no time finding five potential replacements to coach the Ole Miss Rebels. 

Skip Holtz

Skip Holtz may have been known as being the son of Lou Holtz, but Skip has been making a name for himself quietly.

He did a solid job at East Carolina and is doing a decent job at South Florida, as he's gotten both teams in the AP Poll and wins 58 percent of his games.

With possibly more talent on the Ole Miss roster and in a much better conference, he could decide on the job. Who wants to coach in the Big East with the way things are looking right now anyway?

Kent Austin

Kent Austin played quarterback for the Rebels back in the '80s and ranks third all-time in Ole Miss passing yards. He is also a member of the Mississippi sports Hall of Fame.

He has a few years of coaching experience in the Canadian football league and won the Grey Cup in 2007 with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He was also the offensive coordinator for the Rebels from 2008–2010 before taking a head coaching job at Cornell University.

Cornell may have a long history, but it wouldn't be a difficult decision if his alma mater came calling.

Mike Leach

What coaching list doesn't include Mike Leach?

Simply because Leach would probably jump at the first coaching opportunity that presents itself. 

He has the big name that would get fans excited about football in Ole Miss again and has the offensive mind that would improve this horrible offense.

This would be a great fit if the Rebels are able to land Mike Leach.

Paul Petrino

Paul Petrino has 19 years of coaching experience, and everywhere he's gone, his offenses have been extremely impressive.

While at Louisville, his team averaged over 40 points per game, and he is breaking records as the offensive coordinator for Illinois. Although he has a very impressive resume and a brilliant offensive mind, he still has yet to run a team as a head coach.

Getting to coach in the SEC is a nice accomplishment and something that may be difficult to pass up if it comes calling.

Gus Malzahn

Malzahn would be another great choice because he knows the conference and has put up ridiculous numbers as an offensive coordinator for Arkansas, Tulsa and Auburn. 

He is known for his no-huddle offense, and it has been very effective almost everywhere he has gone. He would really spark this team up and help that offense that is one of the worst in the country.

He won the Broyles Award last season.

Would Malzahn turn down the offer to run his own team in the SEC if Ole Miss extends the offer?

I think not.

Randy Chambers is a B/R Featured Columnist that covers College Football and the NFL. You can contact him @Randy_Chambers or [e-mail]

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