August 22, 2001, (New York) Daily News

BY PHYLLIS FURMAN

Fresh from a brief stint as the substitute anchor for Dan Rather, "60 Minutes II" correspondent Scott Pelley's name is resurfacing as a serious contender to succeed the veteran newscaster.

CBS News insiders are buzzing about what's shaping up to be a two-man, in-house race for the coveted anchor seat, pitting Pelley against CBS chief White House correspondent John Roberts.

Some believe Rather has been quietly lobbying CBS News chief Andrew Heyward to support Pelley, though senior CBS News officials deny Rather has expressed any preference.

The issue of Rather's succession has been a hot topic in the TV business, as the 20-year occupant of the "CBS Evening News" anchor chair approaches his 70th birthday Oct. 31.

Rumors of who will succeed him have persisted, even though CBS News execs have insisted that Rather is not in any way ready to exit. Rather's contract expires in 2003.

When asked whether he'd like to eventually have Rather's job, Pelley told the Daily News, "Sure."

"Most journalists would drop anything they were doing to be the anchor and managing editor of the 'CBS Evening News,' " he said, quickly adding, "I'm totally focused on the next season of '60 Minutes II."

A 44-year-old Texas native whose career has mirrored Rather's - from a local station in Texas to a stint as White House correspondent - Pelley has worked hard to mimic his mentor, CBS insiders said.

"He wants to be 'Mini Me' to Dan," said a CBS News exec referring to the "Austin Powers" character. "It's scary."

Pelley's name has long been included on lists of candidates for Rather's job, though he's often seen as second to Roberts, who typically subs for Rather. Others on the list: Ed Bradley, Bryant Gumbel, Tim Russert and Diane Sawyer.

Though CBS News has historically plucked its anchors from its own ranks, the network may have to go for a big outsider.

"They don't have a household name to take over," a source said.

For its part, CBS News said it's in no hurry to make any moves. "There is absolutely no change at the 'CBS Evening News' on the horizon," said spokeswoman Sandy Genelius. "When the time ultimately comes we're fortunate to have several strong candidates and Andrew also reserves the right to look outside CBS News."