Steele will be the choice for the HC job at Auburn.that's my opinion based on what I've read about how Gus was ousted. Big money backers wanted Gus out and Steele in, but after they pulled the plug on Gus, the general fandom became ____ed there wasn't going to be a legitimate search for the next HC. So Admin had to set up a search committee etc. and begin the process, fully knowing ahead of time that Steele will still be the choice. However, if someone other than Steele gets the job, it could be a very difficult situation if that person lacks the support of the big money supporters.
I think Billy is doing this due to his agent's recommendation to keep his name on the coaching hot list. Also, taking the Auburn job would probably eliminate him from ever being considered for the other school in Alabama.