Another college football program in the Great Lakes region is embroiled in controversy following the firing of a head coach. Ohio University has dismissed head football coach Brian Smith for "serious professional misconduct," the school announced on Wednesday. This decision comes just one week after the shocking firing and subsequent arrest of University of Michigan coach Sherrone Moore.
Administrative Review Leads to Dismissal
The university stated that Smith was terminated after an administrative review found he had engaged in conduct that "reflects unfavourably on the university." The school had placed Smith on administrative leave starting December 1 for undisclosed reasons, but did not provide specific details about the nature of the misconduct in its public statement.
However, reports indicate the dismissal was for cause due to a violation of the school's alcohol and drugs policy. According to documents obtained by The Athletic, Smith met with school officials in November over an allegation that he breached both university policy and his contract. A letter dated November 24 detailed that meeting, where Smith allegedly acknowledged storing alcohol in his desk drawer and drinking in his office during business hours.
Coach Disputes Termination, Legal Battle Looms
Brian Smith has challenged his dismissal through his lawyer, Rex Elliot. In a statement, Elliot said, "We vigorously dispute Ohio University’s grounds for the termination for cause of coach Brian Smith. He is shocked and dismayed by this turn of events, and we plan to fight this wrongful termination to protect his good name."
Elliot defended Smith's character, stating, "Coach Smith is an ethical man who has done an exemplary job for the university. He wants nothing but the best for the players, coaches, and the entire Bobcat community." The firing comes at a significant financial cost to Smith, as part of a five-year deal signed in October included a US$50,000 retention payment if he remained head coach on December 31, 2025.
Interim Leadership and Bowl Game Implications
With Smith's departure, defensive coordinator John Hauser will continue as interim head coach. Hauser had assumed the role after Smith was placed on leave. He will lead the Bobcats as they wrap up their season against UNLV in the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl on December 23.
The university stated it will begin its search for a new permanent head coach "immediately." Smith had served as the Bobcats' head coach for approximately one year, having been hired in December 2024 to replace Tim Albin.
This incident marks the second major scandal involving a head football coach in the region in a matter of days, following the dramatic case at the University of Michigan. Former Wolverines coach Sherrone Moore was fired last week for an inappropriate relationship with a staff member and later charged with felony home invasion and other offences after an alleged incident at his executive assistant's home.
