Erickson was named Sporting News National Coach of the Year in 2000, and his name came up for several high-profile college football positions."Erickson a competitor to coach" Portland Tribune 19-June-2001 In late 2000, Erickson was a primary choice to fill the vacant position at USC, however he spurned a $7.2 million, five-year contract to remain with the Beavers, and the position eventually went to Pete Carroll.David Wharton, All Signs Point to Carroll, Los Angeles Times, December 14, 2000, Accessed July 15, 2008.David Wharton, Another USC Turnover, Los Angeles Times, November 28, 2000, Accessed July 16, 2008.
