Ohio University has terminated head football coach Brian Smith for cause following an administrative review that uncovered multiple contract violations, including an extramarital affair with an undergraduate student and alcohol-related misconduct, according to documents obtained by the Associated Press.
University president Lori Stewart Gonzalez sent Smith and his attorney, Rex Elliott, a notice of intent to terminate on 12 December, detailing reasons such as “participation in extramarital affairs” and “alcohol-related conduct,” including attending a public event while reportedly intoxicated. The school stated that the affair brought the coach into “public disrepute, contempt, scandal or ridicule.”
Elliott responded on 16 December, arguing that Smith’s divorce proceedings were well underway before he began dating the woman, and that he was unaware she was a student. The attorney claimed the relationship was consensual and did not violate any university policy, as there was no written rule prohibiting employee-student dating. He also disputed the alcohol allegations, noting that a victory toast in Smith’s office used bourbon provided by Gonzalez’s husband.
Smith, 45, was appointed head coach on 18 December 2024 after Tim Albin left for Charlotte. He led the Bobcats to a 9-4 record, including wins in the Cure Bowl and over West Virginia. Defensive coordinator John Hauser will serve as interim coach for the Frisco Bowl on 23 December against UNLV, while the search for a permanent replacement continues.
