RUSTON, La. — Louisiana Tech coach Derek Dooley says he has removed his name as a potential candidate for the Auburn football coaching position.

Dooley said Saturday, "As I have said on many occasions, we are very happy in Ruston and are excited about the continued investments that our administration is committed to making into our athletic program."

Auburn is searching for a replacement for Tommy Tuberville, who stepped aside after the regular season.

Tech finished second in the Western Athletic Conference with a 7-5 record and will play in the Independence Bowl against Northern Illinois on Dec. 28.

Dooley is the son of former Georgia coach and athletic director Vince Dooley, who played football at Auburn.