Lincoln Riley, Lane Kiffin among top options to replace Tom Herman at Houston

The Cougars are looking to make a splash hire with their Tom Herman replacement

Houston doesn't seem like it's going to wait around. Reports indicate it wants to fill the Tom Herman opening by the middle of next week.

The recent addition of Lane Kiffin and Les Miles to the search smells like a full-on agent power play to get their guys on the docket. Miles is telling folks he'll install the spread and bring in a big-name offensive coordinator to run it.

Meanwhile, Kiffin is reportedly scheduled for an interview after the SEC title game.

For now, West Virginia's Dana Holgorsen isn't interested. Sources told CBS Sports there is no way Art Briles would be hired at Houston.

In no particular order, these are Houston's top candidates ...

Les Miles, former LSU coach: The former LSU coach prefers a Power Five job, but there aren't that many open. Houston comes as close to a Power Five as there is. The administration has leveraged millions on salaries and facilities to stay relevant. If it is willing to take a shot at a 63-year old SEC vet on the rebound, they could do worse.

Lane Kiffin, Alabama offensive coordinator: If Kiffin's interest is legitimate, then Houston has to ask a lot of questions. Starting with: Is this 41-year old with three championship rings and three Heisman winners to his credit mature enough to run a program again? Kiffin has been brilliant these last three seasons at Alabama. But Nick would shed no tears if he left. Besides, Steve Sarkisian is waiting in the wings to replace him.

Major Applewhite, Houston offensive coordinator: Houston's OC was instrumental in landing Texas A&M transfer Kyle Allen. There's no doubt he can run an offense. Having seen him behind closed doors, I think he's ready to run a program.

Todd Orlando, Houston defensive coordinator: Before the season, Tom Herman said his front seven on defense was the best he'd been around. While some of the defensive lapses are a concern, Orlando, the Cougars' defensive coordinator, was at his best in the big games against Oklahoma and Louisville. He gets his chance in the short term as Houston's interim coach.

Lincoln Riley, Oklahoma offensive coordinator: Riley's star has risen quickly at Texas Tech, East Carolina and Oklahoma. If the 33-year old doesn't get Houston, he'll get Baker Mayfield for another year. The future is bright.