KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee's circuitous head coaching search, which has taken on just about every twist imaginable, is nearing an end, as the Vols are trying to finalize a deal with Alabama defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt after offering the job to Pruitt earlier in the day Wednesday, sources told ESPN. Pruitt, 43, is in his second season as Alabama's defensive coordinator under Nick Saban. The Crimson Tide, headed to the College Football Playoff for the fourth straight year, are ranked first nationally in scoring defense this season and second nationally in total defense. Pruitt is also regarded as one of the top recruiters in the SEC. As an assistant coach, he's been a part of four national championship teams. Phillip Fulmer, Tennessee's former Hall of Fame coach, replaced John Currie last Friday as the Vols' athletic director and has spearheaded the coaching search ever since. He interviewed Auburn defensive coordinator Kevin Steele and Georgia defensive...