Florida State defensive backs coach Patrick Surtain Sr. has reportedly interviewed for the head coaching vacancy at his alma mater, Southern Miss, according to On3’s Pete Nakos. While in-person interviews have not yet occurred, according to the report, Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner is said to be the frontrunner for the position. Other potential candidates include Georgia tight ends coach Todd Hartley and Auburn offensive coordinator Derrick Nix, the latter being a Southern Miss alumnus who has also interviewed for the job.
Surtain, now in his second year as FSU’s defensive backs coach, was a key figure in FSU’s success last season. In 2023, FSU’s defense was among the nation’s best against the pass, helping the team to a 13-1 record. His work with the secondary led to standout performances from players like cornerback Renardo Green and nickel Jarrian Jones, both of whom were selected in the 2024 NFL Draft (Rounds 2 and 3, respectively).
On the recruiting trail, Surtain has also made a positive impact. Over the last two cycles, he’s been credited as the primary or secondary recruiter for five blue-chip prospects. Key recruitments he’s been involved in include four-star cornerback Charles Lester, four-star cornerback Cai Bates, four-star cornerback Zae Thomas, four-star running back Byron Louis and four-star cornerback Ricky Knight III…