Stanford asks USC to talk to Chow

By Gary Klein
Los Angeles Times

LOS ANGELES — USC athletic director Mike Garrett said yesterday that Stanford had contacted him about offensive coordinator Norm Chow, who is regarded as one of the leading candidates to become coach of the Cardinal.

Garrett said Ted Leland, Stanford's athletic director, phoned him Tuesday to seek permission to talk to Chow. Stanford fired Buddy Teevens on Monday after three consecutive losing seasons.

Chow said yesterday that he had not spoken with Leland or any Stanford representatives.

But with the college coaching carousel spinning even faster after more firings yesterday, Chow's name is expected to be mentioned in connection with several jobs. Mississippi, Indiana and Brigham Young announced dismissals yesterday, adding to a list of openings that includes Notre Dame, Florida, Washington, Stanford and Illinois.

Garrett said Stanford was the only school that had contacted him regarding Chow. "But that doesn't mean they're the only one interested," Garrett said.

Chow, 58, said he definitely was not interested in the job at BYU, where he served as an assistant for 27 years. Chow was passed over for the head coaching position when LaVell Edwards retired. "I've been there, done that," Chow said.