Go back to school is the best way

1) His H1b will be canceled if the company does not help. Finding a company job within 2 weeks is almost impossible.

2) If you pay $1000 for premium processing, it could be approved in two weeks. But, if there is a gap, the H1b can not be transferred.

3) Since his OPT has two more months, he is legal to stay and try to find a job in school.

4) Once he find a position (e.g. post-doc, staff), he can use H1-b premium process to get it approved in one month.

5) At least, he can apply for Spring semester and continue as F1 student.