BGS has learned that WVU defensive coordinator Tony Gibson is a finalist for the head coaching vacancy at Georgia Southern University. The Eagles lost Willie Fritz to Tulane University four days ago.

Andrew Harry of Eagle Sports Insider tells us that Gibson has gained strong support from both the fan base and boosters lately. He is among five finalists including Brent Pry (PSU co-defensive coordinator), Rhett Lashlee (Auburn offensive coordinator), Jamey Chadwell (Charleston Southern head coach), and Brent Davis (Army offensive coordinator). At this time Pry and Chadwell are believed to be the front runners though due to interest in both two years ago.

This is not the first time Gibson has been in the running for head coaching vacancies lately. Bowling Green had strongly considered Gibson has a replacement for Dino Babers who recently took the head coaching position at Syracuse. However, Bowling Green ultimately hired Mike Jinks from Texas Tech.

Sources close to the program have told BGS that Gibson would only leave West Virginia for a head coaching position. Gibson would take the job if offered. We are told that Georgia Southern may very well make their decision by the end of the week.

Georgia Southern finished the 2015 season 8-4 and will play Bowling Green in the Go Daddy Bowl on December 23rd.

Gibson has been the defensive coordinator for the Mountaineers the past two seasons and has gained popularity for rejuvenating a WVU defense that had been among the worst in the country the past few years. Gibson made $650,000 this season and is scheduled to make $750.000 in 2016. The Georgia Southern position will match his current salary.