Houston leadership will meet Thursday evening to discuss the next step in its coaching search, multiple sources told CBS Sports.

A decision could come as soon as Friday morning although there is no certainty. Sources stressed Thursday morning that no offer or decision has been made.

The search seems to be centering on Alabama offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin, Les Miles and current Cougars coordinators Major Applewhite (offense) and Todd Orlando (defense).

Oklahoma offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley removed his name from consideration earlier this week.

ESPN's Brett McMurphy reports that the search is down to Kiffin and the Houston coordinators.

Houston president Renu Khator is expected back in town Thursday to meet with athletic director Hunter Yurachek and booster Tilman Fertitta.

Yurachek seemed to indicate the search hasn't been completed with this cryptic Vatican-related tweet.

Fox Sports' Bruce Feldman notes that Houston would like to come to a decision Thursday night as the recruiting dead period begins Monday. This would give the new coach three days to recruit on behalf of the Cougars before going silent through the national title game.