ISU football coach Gene Chizik interviewed for a job with Auburn on Friday, ISU athletic director Jamie Pollard said in a press release.

Pollard said Auburn athletic director Jay Jacobs contacted him to speak about Chizik. Pollard said he thought Chizik was a serious candidate for the job.

“Auburn’s interest in Gene speaks to his reputation,” Pollard said in the press release. “We saw that same potential in Gene two years ago. He is an outstanding football coach, tremendous recruiter and inspiring leader.”

Chizik became a candidate for the job after Tommy Tuberville stepped down following a 5-7 season for the Tigers. Chizik was a defensive coordinator at Auburn from 2002-04, helping the Tigers to an undefeated season in 2004.

The Iowa State Daily was not immediately able to reach Pollard for comment. The press release said Chizik and Pollard were not available for further comment.