I had an inopportune time to have some mechanical difficulties.

But I'm back on-line and have seen and heard rumors and reports that Mike Leach may be back in Seattle for a second interview with the Huskies.

I can't confirm them in the sense that I've actually seen Leach on campus or anything, but I have talked with enough people who believe it has happened to think there is something to it.

If so, that gives a lot of indication that the Huskies are really serious about Leach, and that the search is reaching a real fever pitch.

One person told me today that Leach and his wife were really intrigued by the idea of living in Seattle after nine years in Lubbock, Texas. Another told me that they enjoyed a visit to the UW medical center --- his daughter just started medical school and is apparently intrigued by the idea of attending the UW medical center, renowned as one of the best in the world.

Some sources have said Leach didn't have a great first interview and that UW AD Scott Woodward had some initial reservations about Leach's reputed "quirkiness'' which would have helped create a reason for a second interview.

Another rumor making the rounds --- which I heard from one source, as well --- is that Pat Hill wants to know by tomorrow whether he is the guy. Hill's Fresno State team is due to begin practice for its bowl game tomorrow and the thought is Hill wants to know whether he is FSU's coach or UW's coach by the time that practice begins.

And here's a new name I've heard in connection with the search --- Oklahoma associate head coach and defensive coordinator Brent Venables. If there's a mystery candidate, maybe it's him. I have been told by two different sources that it is thought he has interviewed for the job. One said he has, another said it's likely he has.

One person told me today that Woodward promised him he would hire "a tough guy.'' Venables would certainly be that based on what Oklahoma has done the last few years.

Also of note today is that UCLA defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker said that he has been told he is not a candidate for the UW job despite expressing interest. Here is a story where Walker says that UW is moving in a different direction.''