Announcement on Florida State football coach search not expected before this weekend

Jim Henry | Tallahassee Democrat

Show Caption Hide Caption Video: FSU Interim coach Odell Haggins talks UF loss FSU interim head coach Odell Haggins talks after the loss to UF.

Florida State’s football coaching search – one that has left the Seminole Nation excited and exhausted – will continue for a few more days.

An announcement is not expected before this weekend as the Seminoles are zeroing in on their candidate, according to a source with knowledge of the search.

FSU’s highly confidential search is entering its fifth week after the school fired Willie Taggart on Nov 3., 21 games into his tenure.

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Names linked to the vacancy include Iowa State’s Matt Campbell, Memphis’ Mike Norvell and Penn State’s James Franklin, among others.

Norvell’s Tigers are playing in their third consecutive American Athletic Conference championship game Saturday; Iowa State and Penn State are awaiting Sunday’s bowl selection show.

Iowa State announced Tuesday morning that Campbell had agreed to a contract extension through 2025.

Former Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops’ name continues to be discussed among fans. Two weeks ago, sources close to the search told the Democrat FSU had been in contact with representatives of Stoops and FSU did not consider him a candidate.

More: From Hughes to Bowden to Taggart, a historical look at Florida State's head football coaches

FSU fans are searching near and far for any signs that would indicate an announcement to introduce a new coach is near.

On Monday, the suspense was heightened as the field turf at Doak Campbell Stadium received a fresh coat of paint and an elevated stage and chairs were set up for an event in the Dunlap Champions Club in the south end zone.

FSU athletic department employees and Seminole Boosters, Inc., also have been anticipating an announcement this week.

Interim head coach Odell Haggins led the Seminoles to a 2-1 finish, closing with Saturday’s 40-17 defeat at Florida.

FSU (6-6) is bowl eligible after missing out last season for the first time In 37 years.

Bowl selections will be announced Sunday.

Bowl bound: Examining potential bowl destinations for Florida State football

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Reach Jim Henry at jjhenry@tallahassee.com.