Houston’s interest in West Virginia coach Dana Holgorsen took another step forward Monday morning. Houston’s athletic department formally contacted West Virginia today to request permission to interview Holgorsen for its vacant position.

That report comes via Pete Thamel of Yahoo Sports.

When Holgorsen’s name became immediately tied to the Houston vacancy, it came to the surprise of many. West Virginia’s season ended last week in a 34-18 loss to former Big East rival Syracuse.

"It's a disappointing to end the season with a loss," Holgorsen said during his post-game press conference. "... A lot of people (say) this bowl game doesn't matter. I couldn't disagree more. We got better as a football team as a program. A lot of our young guys got to practice for a couple of weeks and got to play ball."

In a report Sunday, which can be seen by 247Sports VIP readers by clicking here, EerSports' Mike Cassaza cited sources that said West Virginia and Holgorsen are in a standoff on a potential contract extension. As of New Year's Day, Holgorsen would owe West Virginia a $1 million buyout if he decided to leave with three seasons remaining on his contract.

Houston’s job is vacant after the post-season decision to fire head coach Major Applewhite.

Applewhite’s team had an 8-5 season that saw the Cougars lose four of their last five games. That includes a 70-14 public shaming at the hands of Army in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl. According to Football Scoop, that loss turned up the heat on rumblings that Applewhite’s job may not be safe. When it comes to finding a replacement for Applewhite, it appears Houston is willing to swing for the fences. Football Scoop has more.

“Rather than rebuild after two unsatisfactory seasons (by the school’s stated standard), sources said U of H boosters are evaluating all options, including considering bringing in West Virginia head coach Dana Holgorsen to replace Applewhite.”

Football Scoop cites wealthy Houston booster Tilman Fertitta as the reason that Holgorsen may move from Morgantown to Houston. Holgorsen was the offensive coordinator for the Cougars under Sumlin, and he apparently developed a friendship with Fertitta. Since then, Holgorsen has compiled a 61-41 record in eight seasons with the Mountaineers. The booster has already shown a willingness to open up his bank account to help the football program. Look no further than the $20 million Fertitta coughed up to build The Fertitta center. If he wants Holgorsen, it’s fair to think he’d be willing to fund the hire, at least in part.

Since Holgorsen replaced Bill Stewart in 2012, the Mountaineers are 61-41, including an Orange Bowl victory in the team's final season as Big East members. Holgorsen has had winning records in three-straight seasons against Big 12 opponents but lost bowl games all three years.