South Carolina’s coaching search could focus on three candidates: Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, Houston head coach Tom Herman and Memphis head coach Justin Fuente, according to ESPN’s Travis Haney.

On Tuesday, Haney wrote, “Those close to the program say the search is likely going to center on three candidates: Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, Houston coach Tom Herman and Memphis coach Justin Fuente. Those names don’t come as a surprise; that trio has been at the forefront of any mention of the job since (Steve) Spurrier stepped down a week ago.”

But Haney also threw out another coach that might end up in the running: Arizona’s Rich Rodriguez.

“As I discussed the possibility with agents and coaches, as well as with people close to the Gamecocks’ search, it seems distinctly possible that the 52-year-old Rodriguez and (South Carolina athletic director Ray) Tanner will eventually talk,” Haney wrote.

Spurrier stepped down on Oct. 12 after 11 seasons leading the Gamecocks.