Dan Wolken

USA TODAY Sports

Herb Hand, who has been James Franklin's offensive line coach at both Vanderbilt and Penn State, is headed toward a deal with Auburn according to a person with knowledge of the situation. The person spoke with USA TODAY Sports on the condition of anonymity because the deal was not final.

The opening at Auburn was created Monday when offensive line coach J.B. Grimes accepted the job at Cincinnati, according to Al.com

Hand and Auburn coach Gus Malzahn worked together at Tulsa in 2007-08 and have remained close friends ever since. Hand is otherwise known for his appearance on the television show Chopped.

His departure will be the third off Franklin's staff in recent weeks, including both coordinator positions. Bob Shoop left Penn State for Tennessee during the weekend.