The Tampa Tribune’s Ira Kaufman claims that Tampa Bay coach Jon Gruden already has one foot out the door at Raymond James Stadium.

The Tribune has learned Gruden already is sending out feelers regarding potential job opportunities for 2007. One major stumbling block is his contract status, with Gruden signed through the 2008 season.

Given the annual turnover rate among NFL coaches, several clubs will be looking for a new leader within the next two months and Gruden still generates star power.

The Cowboys, who take on the unbeaten Colts today at Texas Stadium, could make a play for Gruden’s services if Bill Parcells retires, as expected.

Although Tennessee’s Jeff Fisher has been linked to Dallas, Gruden may have more appeal for a savvy marketer like Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.

Bolting to Dallas could be a win-win situation all the way around. Jones gets his man, while the Glazers accelerate the rebuilding process with a slew of draft picks.

When Herm Edwards left the Jets in January with two years remaining on his contract, it cost the Chiefs only a fourth-round choice. Gruden would command considerably more compensation.

Pro Football Talk takes a dim view of Chucky’s career trajectory, claiming the coach is “no longer regarded as a hot-blooded up-and-comer, Gruden is now merely a grumpy middle-aged man with a mouth like a sh-t-sprayed sewer.”

For the second time this season, CSTB’s attempts to feature Maurice Clarett live blogging during a crucial OSU game have not come to fruition. That said, I’m down with Burnt Orange Nation’s insistence that Michigan’s Mike Hart should’ve had more carries on Saturday. Another dozen rushing attempts by Hart, and the Wolverines might have punched their ticket to Glendale. The Buckeyes’ Ted Ginn Jr. (above) had another fantastic day (8 catches, 103 yards, 1 TD) but no grab was bigger than the onside kick he hung onto late in the fourth quarter.