Sources: Dorrell on his way out as UCLA coach

Karl Dorrell is expected to be out as UCLA coach as early as Monday, a person close to the situation told ESPN's Joe Schad on Sunday.

A short list of candidates has been assembled, sources familiar with the athletic department told The Los Angeles Times on Sunday.

Defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker could be considered for the potential opening, according to Schad. Walker is also a candidate for the Washington State opening.

The Los Angeles Times is reporting that Boise State coach Chris Petersen is said to be the first choice of athletic director Dan Guerrero, with Texas Tech coach Mike Leach and former NFL coach Steve Mariucci considered among the other top candidates. Representatives on behalf of the UCLA athletic department have contacted all three, multiple sources said.

The Bruins (6-6, 5-4) entered the season with 20 returning starters and high expectations. Erratic play caused at least in part by injuries to several key players including quarterbacks Ben Olson and Patrick Cowan short-circuited their hopes.

Dorrell was given a one-year extension last February to put him under contract through the 2011 season, but Guerrero said several weeks ago he'd evaluate the program at season's end.

Dorrell declined to comment on his job status after UCLA's 24-7 loss to then No. 8 USC on Saturday, but senior defensive end Bruce Davis had plenty to say on his coach's behalf.

"He wasn't the one that couldn't execute, he didn't go out there and miss tackles, he didn't cause turnovers," Davis said. "I don't want to see him go. I'll always be indebted to him. Off the field, every time I've needed him, he's been there for me and my family."

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Source: ESPN.com