Report: Alabama DC Kirby Smart front-runner for South Carolina vacancy

Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart has emerged as the front-runner for the head-coaching position at South Carolina, a source told Bruce Feldman of FOX Sports.

The 39-year-old Smart, who has held the position with the Crimson Tide since 2008, currently presides over the nation's third-ranked total defensive unit. He is widely considered to be one of the top assistant coaches in college football, winning the 2009 Broyles Award as the country's top assistant.

The Gamecocks have had a disastrous 2015 campaign, struggling to a 3-8 record with coach Steve Spurrier resigning in October.