Athens, OH – December 17, 2025 – Ohio University has terminated the contract of head football coach Brian Smith “for cause,” ending a brief and tumultuous tenure just weeks after placing him on administrative leave. The decision comes after an internal review revealed allegations of serious professional misconduct.
Background on Brian Smith and His Time at Ohio
Brian Smith, 45, was promoted to head coach in December 2024. After serving as offensive coordinator and interim coach following Tim Albin’s departure to Charlotte. In his first full season in 2025, Smith led the Bobcats to an 8-4 record, positioning them for a bowl game appearance.
Prior to Ohio, Smith coached at Washington State and Hawaii, bringing an offensive-minded approach that helped the team achieve back-to-back 10-win seasons under the previous staff.
The abrupt change began on December 1, 2025, when Ohio announced Smith was on indefinite paid leave without explanation. Defensive coordinator John Hauser was named interim head coach.
Details of the Termination
On December 17, Ohio University released a statement confirming the firing:
“Today, Ohio University terminated the contract of Head Football Coach Brian Smith for cause. 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 university provided no specific details about the misconduct. Interim coach John Hauser will lead the team in the upcoming Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl against UNLV on December 23.
Smith’s contract, finalized in October 2025, was worth around $815,000 annually through 2029.
Reaction and Ongoing Questions
Smith’s attorney previously denied any wrongdoing and stated the coach had not been informed of specific allegations during his leave. The lack of transparency has drawn criticism, with speculation filling the information vacuum.
As the Bobcats prepare for their bowl game, the program faces uncertainty heading into the offseason.
Stay updated on developments surrounding Brian Smith Ohio University, the football program’s future, and college coaching changes.
Brian Smith Wikipedia: Brian Smith (born August 9, 1980) is an American college football coach who was the head coach at Ohio University. He was previously the associate head coach and offensive coordinator at Ohio, Washington State University and also the associate head coach and offensive coordinator at the University of Hawaii, where he also played college football. He was relived of his position at Ohio University as of 12/17/25.
