Subtract at least one name from the list of potential candidates to replace Ron Zook as the Florida coach.
Former Gators defensive coordinator and current Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said Wednesday he has no desire to return to Gainesville at this time.
"I have great respect for the people at Florida and a lot of good memories from my time there, but to end the speculation that is ongoing, I want to make it clear that I have no interest in the position that is currently available there," Stoops said in a statement.
Stoops was contacted about the job three years ago when Steve Spurrier resigned, but declined. The Sooners are 7-0 and ranked No. 2 in the nation, and Stoops doesn't need the distraction that comes with having his name thrown around as a possible candidate.
"It is a privilege to be the head coach at Oklahoma and I am fully concentrating on having the best season we can have, and in building the strongest program we can build," Stoops said.
Meanwhile, speculation over Spurrier's possible return continues. Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley said he has not contacted Spurrier, but that the former coach is aware of the school's timetable for hiring Zook's replacement. Foley said if Spurrier is interested, Florida will talk with him.
Spurrier has expressed interest in having Oklahoma co-defensive coordinator Bo Pellini on his staff, ESPN.com reported. Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione said Wednesday he couldn't say whether Florida has contacted him about talking with any of his coaches. "I have a long-standing policy not to discuss who calls me or whether someone called me," Castiglione said.
