Ohio University has terminated the contract of its head football coach, Brian Smith, citing "serious professional misconduct" which included an extramarital affair with an undergraduate student and repeated alcohol-related incidents.
University Details Grounds for Dismissal
The specific reasons for the dismissal for cause were laid out in a notice of intent to terminate sent by university president Lori Stewart Gonzalez on 12 December. The document, obtained by the Associated Press, stated Smith's conduct had brought the coach into "public disrepute, contempt, scandal or ridicule".
The university cited his participation in extramarital affairs and alcohol-related conduct as key violations. One incident described Smith smelling strongly of alcohol and appearing intoxicated at a public event. The notice also mentioned the "repeated use of alcohol" in his office.
Coach's Legal Team Vigorously Disputes Claims
Smith's attorney, Rex Elliott, responded to the allegations in a letter dated 16 December. He argued that Smith's divorce proceedings were already underway before he began dating and that the relationship was not concealed. Elliott stated Smith did not know the woman was a student when they met at a venue in Athens and that she was not affiliated with the football programme.
Regarding the alcohol allegations, Elliott claimed the reprimand stemmed from a victory toast with his staff after home games. He asserted the bourbon was provided by the university president's husband and that this did not justify a termination for cause.
"We vigorously dispute Ohio University’s grounds for the termination for cause of Coach Brian Smith," Elliott said in a statement. However, his letter indicated a willingness to negotiate a mutual departure to avoid a public dispute.
Fallout and Next Steps for the Bobcats
The 45-year-old Smith was placed on indefinite leave on 1 December before his formal dismissal. He had been promoted to head coach on 18 December 2024 following a rapid rise through the ranks, having joined as running backs coach in 2022.
His single season at the helm saw the Ohio Bobcats achieve a 9-4 record, including a Cure Bowl victory and a win over West Virginia. Defensive coordinator John Hauser will serve as interim coach for the upcoming Frisco Bowl against UNLV on 23 December, while the university begins its search for a permanent replacement.
The case highlights the intense scrutiny and behavioural standards expected of high-profile figures in collegiate sports, with the university moving swiftly to address conduct it deemed incompatible with its values.
