Derek Mason reportedly in the mix for open Big 12 DC job

Derek Mason, by all accounts, had a very successful season as Auburn’s defensive coordinator under Bryan Harsin in 2021.

Auburn ranked fourth in the SEC in fewest yards per play allowed, and he seems popular with his players.

But, according to a report from The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman, Mason is drawing interest from Oklahoma State for its open defensive coordinator position:

SOURCES: Auburn DC Derek Mason has emerged as a strong candidate for the Oklahoma State defensive coordinator vacancy. The Tigers ranked No. 4 in the SEC this year in fewest yards per play allowed.

— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) January 20, 2022

Oklahoma State just lost standout DC Jim Knowles, who left Stillwater to take the same position on Ryan Day’s staff at Ohio State.

Would Mason leave Auburn to take the same job at Oklahoma State? That would seemingly be, at best, a lateral move. We’ll see what the future holds for the former Vanderbilt head coach, but his good work at Auburn is drawing the attention of other programs.