Miami coach Al Golden, who emerged as the favorite to take the Penn State head coaching job in recent days, released a statement this afternoon reaffirming his commitment to Miami and denying his candidacy for other jobs.

“There has been much speculation concerning my future at the University of Miami,” Golden’s statement read. “While I am flattered that our progress at The U during an extremely difficult period of time is recognized, I am also appreciative of just what we have here at UM and I am not a candidate for another position. We are eager to welcome our student athletes back to campus next week and visit with prospective student-athletes and their families beginning January 15.”

Golden has stayed quiet since Bill O’Brien announced his departure for the Texans mid-week. Several reports indicated that Golden interviewed with Penn State’s search committee yesterday. This statement leaves little room for interpretation and could essential squash any hope of Golden returning to his alma mater unless he somehow has a change of heart.

The search committee is reportedly meeting with Vanderbilt coach James Franklin today, along with former Titans head coach and alumnus Mike Munchak. Athletic director David Joyner said Thursday that the process should take a “matter of days.”