I'd be shocked if Fickell departs the state of Ohio to coach SC, having little to no CA ties. After checking out things about him on a small scale forensic level, seeing that his eldest son is on the Cinci roster currently, his fam being a part of the catholic church community in OH seemingly devoutly, and last, 4 additional children with established social lives, I just don't see Fickell changing that lifestyle for So Cal-- for himself and more so his family. I can definitely see the family vote being 1-6, 2-5 tops.
It feels as if he's patiently waiting to perhaps become the next OSU or ND coach.
Hope I'm wrong, as he's a definite top 5 option.