Brian Smith Fired By Ohio University Following Misconduct Allegations
The college football coaching carousel just took a wild, unexpected spin in Athens, Ohio. Just days before the Bobcats are set to strap on the pads for the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl, Ohio University decided to cut ties with Head Coach Brian Smith. And let me tell you, this isn’t your standard “we agreed to part ways” press release. This one has some teeth.
On Wednesday, the university announced it was firing Smith for cause. The official line? He allegedly engaged in “serious professional misconduct” and participated in activities that reflect unfavorably on the university.
Smith’s Tenure Ends In a Flash
It feels like just yesterday Smith was drawing up plays as the offensive coordinator, helping the Bobcats punch above their weight class. Promoted to the big chair last December after Tim Albin bolted for Charlotte, Smith signed a five-year deal that was supposed to keep him on the sidelines through 2029.
Instead, his head coaching era lasted exactly one regular season.
To be fair, on the field, Smith actually delivered. He led the squad to a solid 8-4 record. In a results-oriented business, usually, eight wins gets you a pat on the back and a contract extension discussion, not a pink slip before the bowl game. But clearly, whatever went down behind closed doors was enough for the administration to hit the eject button immediately.
What Happens Next For the Bobcats?
This timing is, frankly, awkward. The Bobcats have a date with UNLV on December 23 in Frisco, Texas. Imagine being in that locker room right now. Your leader is gone, the administration is citing “misconduct,” and you still have to go play a football game against a Mountain West opponent.
Defensive Coordinator John Hauser, who has been steering the ship since Smith was placed on leave earlier this month, will act as the interim head coach for the bowl game. It is a tough spot for Hauser and the players, who have to compartmentalize all this drama and try to finish the season on a high note.
The Legal Battle Over Smith Begins
If you thought this was going to go quietly into the night, think again. Smith isn’t taking this sitting down. His attorney, Rex Elliott, came out swinging on Wednesday, stating they “vigorously dispute” the termination grounds.
“He is shocked and dismayed by this turn of events, and we plan to fight this wrongful termination to protect his good name,” Elliott said.
Get your popcorn ready, because this is likely heading to court. If Smith were fired without cause, the school would owe him roughly $2.5 million. By firing him for cause, they are trying to keep the checkbook closed. Expect a messy, drawn-out fight over that buyout money.
