Archive · 19 Dec 2025
Ohio University Fires Coach Brian Smith
Ohio University fired their head football coach, Brian Smith, because he did something wrong at work.
The university said he broke the rules of his job, but they didn't say exactly what he did.
Smith's lawyer says he didn't do anything wrong and they plan to fight the decision.
The team will play their next game with a new coach, and the university is looking for a permanent replacement.
Smith was in his first full season as head coach and had a good record with the team.
Ohio University terminated head football coach Brian Smith for serious professional misconduct.
Smith was placed on administrative leave on December 1, 2024, before his termination.
The university will avoid paying the remaining $2.5 million on Smith's contract.
Interim coach John Hauser will lead the team in the upcoming Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl against UNLV on December 23, 2024.
Smith's attorney disputes the termination and plans to fight the decision.
- Who
- Brian Smith, head football coach at Ohio University
- What
- Termination from his position for serious professional misconduct
- When
- December 17, 2024
- Where
- Ohio University
- Why
- Violation of employment contract due to serious professional misconduct
- Coach Fired
- Brian Smith
- Reason
- Serious professional misconduct
- Termination Date
- December 17, 2024
- Interim Coach
- John Hauser
- Upcoming Game
- Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl against UNLV
- Game Date
- December 23, 2024
- Remaining Contract Value
- $2.5 million
- Contract Duration
- Through 2029