Akron's new coach is Irish interim coach Ianello?

Upon the firing of head coach Charlie Weis, Rob Ianello was named as Notre Dame's interim coach.

Now, the recruiting coordinator could be heading out to a permanent job of his own. Well, as permanent as Div. 1-A head-coaching gigs can get.

City university sources, the Akron Beacon Journal is reporting that Ianello has emerged as the leading contender for the Akron vacancy.

A press conference has been scheduled for noon ET Thursday, where it's expected Ianello will be officially introduced as the Zips new coach.

The 44-year-old assistant has been with the Irish since 2005, and had previously served stints at, among other places, Wisconsin and Arizona.

Kansas offensive coordinator Ed Warinner, given his extensive and deep ties in that area of Ohio, was thought to be a serious contender for the opening as well. Warinner interviewed for the position on Monday of this week.

Ianello interviewed for the job the following day.