Wisconsin Coach Search: Al Golden Turns Down Job, Badgers Continue Hunt For Head Coach

Schools typically act quickly when filling a head coaching vacancy, but Wisconsin athletic director and former head football coach Barry Alvarez appears to be taking his time, or he may be struggling to fill the position.

Last week, Alvarez was linked to several coaches, but some can be eliminated.

Miami’s Al Golden turned down an offer Thursday according to Sports Illustrated. Golden could have moved on from the Hurricanes, who may be in line for sanctions from the NCAA, but apparently showed loyalty for the program.

Willie Taggart reportedly interviewed for the Badgers' opening, but he departed Western Kentucky to join South Florida last week.

Boise State’s Chris Petersen was also rumored to interview at Madison earlier this week, but there have been conflicting reports on whether he has been in contact with Alvarez at all. Not to mention how much Petersen would cost, considering his 83-8 overall record and $2 million salary this season.

Paul Rhoads of Iowa State has not been ruled out with his deep roots to the Midwest, but his overall record of 24-26 with the Cyclones may not sit well with Wisconsin fans.

Alvarez said he was looking at current head coaches first, but did not rule out top assistants from the college ranks or pros.

Some names that are still in the mix are Notre Dame defensive coordinator Bob Diaco and former NFL head coach turned-Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Brad Childress.

According to CBS Sports, Childress has expressed interest in the Wisconsin vacancy, and he coached under Alvarez from 1991 to 1998 as running backs coach and offensive coordinator. Childress has 13 years as an NFL assistant and head coach, which could draw in plenty of top recruits.

Diaco could be a strong choice based on this season alone. Notre Dame is back on top in the national title game, and its because of his defense, ranked second in the nation.