Orsini's out | by Pat

Considered a heavy favorite by fans and the media, SMU AD Steve Orsini is no longer a candidate for the Notre Dame AD job.

"I am pleased to announce that Steve Orsini will remain at SMU as director of athletics,” school president Dr. R. Gerald Turner said in a statement released by the school. “I met with Steve today and reiterated my desire for him to stay. I am delighted that he has decided to continue to lead our athletic programs.

Given Orsini's stated interest in the job earlier in the search, it's reasonable to assume that ND is pretty close to making a hire and the finalists that don't get (or take) the job are given a chance to reaffirm their support for their current program before ND announces the hire. Either that or SMU decided to back up a Brinks truck to the Orsini residence.

Orsini was definitely a strong candidate. It will be interesting to say the least to see which candidate ND lands in his stead.