Ex-Gophers HC shares advice for PJ Fleck amidst USC rumors

There’s been a lot of names around college football connected to USC’s head coach opening since it’s such a big job and that includes P.J. Fleck.

It’s not known if Fleck will interview for the job, but former Gophers coach Glen Mason indicated on KFAN1003 in Minnesota that Fleck should take the job if he’s offered.

Quote: Former #Gophers coach Glen Mason on @KFAN1003 on what he would say if current U coach PJ Fleck were to call him to ask about whether he should consider USC. Mason’s advice to ANY coach in years 4-6, who has had success there and is contacted for equal/better job:

“Go.”

— Andy Greder (@andygreder) September 15, 2021

Mason coached Minnesota from 1997-2006 well before Fleck got the job there (2017) and compiled a 64-57 record. His best season came in 2003 when he coached the Gophers to a 10-3 record and a Sun Bowl victory. He won 2 other bowl games while he was there as well (Music City Bowl in 2002 & 2004).

Fleck has compiled a 27-20 record at Minnesota since he was hired, with his best season being in 2019 when the Gophers went 11-2 and won the Outback Bowl.

There have also been other coaches linked to USC, such as Urban Meyer from the Jacksonville Jaguars and James Franklin from Penn State.

The search is expected to continue throughout the season.