Jeramiah Dickey is in place as Boise State's athletics director and the search for Bryan Harsin's replacement is moving toward its end.
Sources tell FootballScoop that Oregon defensive coordinator Andy Avalos and Montana State head coach Jeff Choate continue to be the most prime candidates for the position. Both have extensive history with the program, Avalos as a former Bronco linebacker and a seven-year assistant coach, rising from defensive line coach to defensive coordinator over the course of his 2012-18 tenure.
Choate's time on the blue turf did not overlap with Avalos. He was a Broncos assistant from 2006-11, coaching running backs and then linebackers while carrying special teams duties throughout.
The former Idaho high school coach would go on to work at Florida and Washington before taking over at Montana State, where he has compiled a 28-22 record in four seasons. Choate's Bobcats have demonstrated steady improvement over the course of his tenure, rising from 4-7 to 5-6 to 7-4 (regular season) and then to 9-3 (regular season) in 2019, complete with a trip to the FCS semifinals and a No. 4 final ranking.
Chris Petersen, who is advising Boise State on this hire, has been an influential voice throughout this process, we are told.
Additionally, sources say USC offensive coordinator Graham Harrell was likely to interview with Boise State brass about the job. It remains to be seen whether Harrell (or anyone outside of "the family") has a real shot at this one; but word is a decision is coming soon.
A hire is expected to be in place in the next 24 to 48 hours.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.