Updated

Missouri athletic director Mike Alden addressed the likelihood coach Gary Pinkel will be sought for the Washington opening, raising the possibility of a contract extension after the season.

The fifth-ranked Tigers play No. 3 Auburn in the SEC championship game Saturday in Atlanta. Both schools are 11-1 overall and 7-1 in conference play.

Pinkel has 101 victories in 13 seasons at Missouri, tied with Don Faurot for most in school history.

Alden said he's proud of the team's success academically too, and said he and the coach have already spoken about the future.