Aztecs AD: 'Phenomenal' interest in head coaching gig

Schemmel and university president Stephen Weber raised just more than $1 million from boosters to help pay off the final two years of Long's contract. Long is due just more than $1.4 million.

Although his timeline differed with that offered by Weber on Sunday, Schemmel said the two were able to raise the money in just a few days.

"We do not have money in the budget to pay two football head coaches," he said.

Schemmel refused to divulge the names of the boosters or the amounts of money each individual gave.

"No, I can't because we promised them we would not discuss it," he said.

"I think what it shows is there's great passion for San Diego State football and strong feelings about where we should go, and some people willing to put their money behind it," he said.

SDSU hasn't had a winning season or gone to a bowl game since 1998.

Asked about the perception that Weber and Schemmel were scheming behind Long's back, the AD said: "It was very, very difficult. I think Chuck was very aware. Chuck and I talked after every football game. Chuck was aware this was a possibility."

Long didn't immediately return a phone call seeking comment. Earlier in the week, Long said he had been surprised by the firing.