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USC reportedly interested in Jon Gruden, but no contact yet

Like almost every other opening at a major school, Jon Gruden appears to be a target for USC.

The USC Trojans are in the early stages of their search for a new head football coach, but a familiar name may be on their list.

USC is interested in former Oakland Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden, says The Dan Patrick Show. But the Trojans have not reached out, according to CBS Sports’ Jeremy Fowler.

Gruden has been out of coaching since being fired by the Bucs after the 2008 season. He was hired by ESPN as a Monday Night Football analyst in 2009 and has been working from the booth ever since. Despite repeatedly showing little interest in leaving his job as a broadcaster, he’s often rumored as a top candidate any time a major school is looking for a coach.

More on USC: Conquest Chronicles

While he hasn't accepted a job since leaving the NFL, Gruden recently hinted that he may be itching to get back on the sideline. The 50-year-old told Carlos E. Medina of the Ocala (Fla.) Star-Banner he "would like to give coaching one more try."

USC is looking for a new coach after firing Lane Kiffin on Sept. 29, following a 62-41 loss at Arizona State. In three-plus seasons with the Trojans, Kiffin compiled a 28-15 record overall and a 17-12 mark in Pac-12 play.

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