Penn State was much closer to losing offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead than fans might think. Reports came out today saying that Moorhead was interviewed by Purdue University in Indianapolis as a secondary option in case the man the Boilermakers ended up hiring — Western Kentucky’s Jeff Brohm — turned them down.

Purdue officials did interview Penn State offensive coordinator Joe Moorhead in Indy in case Brohm turned them down. Another big offense guy — Pete DiPrimio (@pdiprimio) December 5, 2016

While it might seem egregious that Moorhead would interview with another school before such a big game, consider this. Purdue is located relatively close to Indianapolis — a little over one hour to be exact — which made it the perfect opportunity for the school to entertain one of the fastest rising coaches in the country. Purdue’s hiring slate indicates it’s looking for an offensive boost, and Brohm will definitely be the guy to provide that. He enjoyed wild success with quarterback Brandon Doughty who would end up being drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the seventh round.

There’s no denying Moorhead could’ve adequately done the job, and done it well. Fans should be thankful the Lions can hold onto Moorhead for the foreseeable future, but should be wary of a potential jump to a head coaching position within the next few years if he continues to produce at such a rate.

Moorhead’s quickly establishing himself as one of the hottest coaching prospects in the country, and he was very close to becoming the next head coach at Purdue.