Ohio University announced the dismissal of head football coach Brian Smith due to serious professional misconduct. Smith, who joined the coaching staff in 2022, had been placed on indefinite leave on December 1 prior to his termination. Details regarding the misconduct have not been released, according to Spectrum Local News.
Rex Elliott, Smith’s attorney, stated that they dispute Ohio University’s grounds for the termination and plan to contest it. Smith, who had a brief tenure with the Bobcats, led the team to a 9–4 record, including a victory in last year’s Cure Bowl against Jacksonville State and a win over West Virginia this season, as reported by The Associated Press.
Smith progressed through the Ohio coaching staff, serving as running backs coach before becoming passing game coordinator in 2022, associate head coach in 2023, and offensive coordinator in 2024, succeeding Tim Albin, who left for Charlotte. Defensive coordinator John Hauser will serve as interim head coach for the upcoming Frisco Bowl on December 23 against UNLV, while the university searches for a permanent head coach.
Elliott and Smith plan to challenge the university’s decision, citing Smith’s professional record and involvement with the team and community. Neither Smith nor Ohio University has released details regarding the allegations. According to a statement obtained by The Associated Press, while legal proceedings may follow, the Bobcats will continue under Hauser’s leadership as they prepare for their upcoming bowl game. The circumstances of Smith’s tenure and departure remain largely undisclosed.
