COURT RESTRAINS RESIDENT DOCTORS FROM EMBARKING ON STRIKE. (PHOTO).
Ohio University fires coach Brian Smith following serious professional misconduct allegations
Ohio University has fired football coach Brian Smith, citing what it described as “serious professional misconduct,” bringing a sudden end to a tenure that began less than a year ago. Smith had been placed on indefinite leave on Dec. 1, and the university announced Wednesday that it had terminated his contract for cause following an internal administrative review. School officials said the review concluded Smith engaged in conduct that violated professional standards and reflected unfavorably on the university, though no specific details were disclosed about the findings or the nature of the misconduct.
Smith’s attorney, Rex Elliott, sharply criticized the decision, saying the termination is being strongly contested. Elliott said Smith is “shocked and dismayed” by the outcome and plans to challenge what he called a wrongful dismissal in an effort to clear his name. He described Smith as an ethical coach who served the program well and emphasized that Smith’s priority has always been the well-being of the players, staff, and the broader Bobcat community. Smith, 45, was named head coach on Dec. 18, 2024, after Tim Albin departed for the head coaching job at Charlotte. Smith joined Ohio in 2022 as running backs coach and passing game coordinator, was promoted to associate head coach in 2023, and became offensive coordinator in 2024 before being elevated to the top position.
Despite the abrupt end to his tenure, Smith oversaw on-field success during his time leading the program. The Bobcats posted a 9-4 record under his leadership, highlighted by a victory in the Cure Bowl against Jacksonville State and a 17-10 win over West Virginia earlier this season. With Smith dismissed, defensive coordinator John Hauser has been appointed interim head coach and will lead the team in the Frisco Bowl on Dec. 23 against UNLV. Ohio University has also begun the process of searching for a permanent replacement to guide the football program moving forward.
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