Ohio University has officially parted ways with head football coach Brian Smith, citing "serious professional misconduct" as the reason behind his dismissal. The announcement came Wednesday afternoon, just days before the Bobcats are set to face UNLV in the Frisco Bowl.
The university released a statement outlining the decision, stating that Smith was terminated following an administrative review that found he had violated terms of his employment agreement. According to the school, Smith engaged in conduct that not only breached his contract but also reflected poorly on the university. The details of the misconduct have not been disclosed, but the language used by the school indicates the findings were significant enough to warrant immediate action.
Smith had been on administrative leave since early December, and in his absence, interim coach John Hauser has taken over the program. Hauser will continue in that role through the bowl game as Ohio begins its search for a new permanent head coach.
Smith’s tenure in Athens was brief but eventful. He joined the Bobcats in 2022 and took over the head coaching job last season when Tim Albin departed to lead the program at Charlotte.
In parts of two seasons, Smith compiled a 9-4 record. While the win-loss column showed promise, the off-field issues ultimately brought his time with the program to an abrupt end.
This coaching change marks a period of rare instability for Ohio football. The program had enjoyed nearly two decades of continuity under Frank Solich and then Albin, who together led the Bobcats for 19 years. Now, in a span of three seasons, Ohio will be turning to its third head coach - a significant shift for a team that’s prided itself on consistency.
The university has stated that the search for Smith’s replacement will begin immediately. With the Frisco Bowl looming and the offseason approaching, Ohio’s leadership will be looking to move quickly to stabilize the program and set a new course heading into 2026.