Why would the searching staff let all these names out? Do they really want to hear each of these coaches say they are not interested, even if a few might be? In season what else could they possibly say? That's kinda dangerous even at season's end, but all these guys are 4 games into their season and some are undefeated and recruits are listening hard. Why would these names be put out there, it almost demands a verbal response for these HCs?
Although I wouldn't put anything past this administration, I don't think they're leaking any names. I think it's the media speculating. But you're right, especially if you want Herman. He's not going to jeopardize the season his kids are putting together by constantly answering questions about LSU. That's part of the reason I think he might decline. The timing doesn't seem right for him.
It would be hard to believe your BOS is that much of an amateur to let this start playing out in the press. With the coaches in their new roles, it should give LSU all the time in the world to talk to agents and concentrate on the season.
Because they are idiots. It's the same thing that doomed the search last year. Every coach mentioned is playing ball now. They will have to deny the interest and then take their names out of the hat or be a lying douche like Saban. This needs to be handled behind closed doors with shut mouths.
They have plausible deniability because all the coach has to say is "I never spoke to LSU" and they would be right because it's their agent doing the talking.