The Patriots' loss Saturday night very well could result in their special teams coordinator Joe Judge becoming the next head coach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs.
Sources had told FootballScoop if the Patriots had won that game, the likelihood of Judge being able to interview for both the New York Giants head coaching position and Mississippi State's was unlikely given Belichick's plans for game week prep. However, we all now know the Patriots lost, the Giants pushed the interview back to Monday, allowing Mississippi State AD John Cohen to get his audience Sunday with Judge.
We reported following their meeting that Mississippi State felt they have a great chance of landing Judge.
This morning Ross Dellenger reports that State is hoping to get Judge; but Judge is awaiting a decision from the New York Giants. Matt Rhule going off the board to Carolina could increase New York's urgency to land Judge.
Over the past week, sources have told FootballScoop that Judge has a good feel for who he would like to bring to Starkville with him should he get the job.
Sources tell FootballScoop Judge hopes to bring Tulane offensive coordinator Will Hall to State in the same capacity. Additionally, sources tell FootballScoop Judge has Tosh Lupoi high on his list for defensive coaches, potentially with the coordinator title. A third target, and likely the biggest lock, is Judge's good friend from back in their days at State is Jody Wright. Wright knows the roads, having worked at Mississippi State, Alabama, UAB, Jacksonville State, etc... Wright is regarded as one of the more well liked and respected coaches in the area and he and Judge are good friends. Wright could wind up with an elevated title, such as assistant head coach.
Sources told FootballScoop Mississippi State was hopeful they would have a deal in place no later than today. However, it remains to be seen if the Giants search or other dominoes will impact things.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest coaching job information.
Update> Judge has been hired by the Giants.