Washington State defensive coordinator Alex Grinch is a candidate to join Ohio State’s staff, sources told FootballScoop on Friday.

Sources indicated Grinch would not replace an active Ohio State assistant; rather, he would serve as the Buckeyes’ 10th assistant, which will become effective for all FBS programs on Jan. 9. If the move gets completed, it’s a window into how the elite FBS programs are looking to fill their newly-created staff positions. Grinch earned $600,000 at Washington State, according to the USA Today coaching salary database.

In three seasons at Washington State’s defensive coordinator, Grinch has helped the Cougars improve from 103rd nationally to 28th in yards per play allowed and from 117th to 47th in scoring. Wazzu has also racked up a 26-12 record during Grinch’s tenure after going 12-25 during Mike Leach’s first three seasons.

That success has won Grinch admirers across the nation. We understand he was asked to interview with a number of SEC programs as well. Grinch is a native of Grove City, Ohio, a suburb to the south of Columbus, and graduated from Mount Union. Certainly that helps Ohio State’s chances a bit.

Sources tell us Mike Leach has made it clear to Grinch he wants him to remain at Washington State and that remains an option at this time a source tells FootballScoop.

With National Signing Day approaching on Wednesday and the Cougars slated for the Holiday Bowl on Dec. 28, it’s unclear when Grinch would make the move to Ohio State should he choose to accept the offer.

As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.