Let the speculation begin

Last update: January 21, 2010 - 12:07 AM

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Already names have surfaced in connection with the Gophers offensive coordinator position, for whatever reason. In no particular order:

1. Gregg Brandon

• The last time Gophers fans saw Brandon he was coaching Bowling Green against the Gophers in Tim Brewster's first season. Brandon was offensive coordinator under Urban Meyer at Bowling Green and ascended to the head coach job when Meyer left for Utah. After being fired there, he spent last season as OC at Virginia under Al Groh, who was fired after going 3-9. Brandon has coached many strong offenses, but most of his experience is in spread schemes.

2. J.D. Brookhart

• Recently fired as the coach at Akron, he has a résumé that includes a stint at the University of Pittsburgh, where he ended up as offensive coordinator. At Pitt, he coached Larry Fitzgerald Jr.

3. Brent Pease

• Currently assistant head coach and receivers coach at Boise State, which has had a strong run of offensive success. It's unclear whether he would be interested in moving to Minnesota.

4. Tim Davis

• The Gophers offensive line coach and running game coordinator, Davis would provide continuity, though he has never called plays or acted as an offensive coordinator before.

5. Mike Canales

• He is available after not being retained by new South Florida coach Skip Holtz. He has led some successful offenses, but he is a coach with spread offense experience.

Others to consider

• Oklahoma State assistant Gunter Brewer, who was on Tim Brewster's short list last season; Temple offensive coordinator Matt Rhule.

KEN YOUNGBLOOD

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