Ohio University fires head football coach Brian Smith for cause

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Ohio University football head coach Brian Smith has been relieved of his duties for cause, the school announced in a press release on Dec. 17.

"The termination follows an administrative review of allegations that Smith violated the terms of his employment agreement by engaging in serious professional misconduct and participating in activities that reflect unfavorably on the University," the release from Ohio University reads.

Smith was named head coach of the Bobcats on Dec. 14, 2024 and led Ohio to an 8-4 record in the 2025 season. The school placed Smith on leave on Dec. 1 without specifying why or for how long.

Ohio named defensive coordinator John Hauser the interim coach, and he will continue in that role for the Bobcats' game against UNLV in the 2025 Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl.

The school has started a head coaching search effective immediately, per the Dec. 17 release.

Ohio University did not immediately return a request for comment. The Dispatch has also reached out to the attorney for Smith, but has yet to hear back.

This story was updated to add new information and to correct for an inaccuracy.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Brian Smith fired. Ohio Bobcats football coach search begins

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