Ohio University Fires Head Football Coach Brian Smith for Serious Professional Misconduct
Ohio University has terminated head football coach Brian Smith for cause following an administrative review that cited serious professional misconduct and behavior reflecting unfavorably on the university. Smith had signed a five-year contract to remain head coach through the 2029 season, but the termination for cause means he will not be owed approximately $2.5 million in remaining salary.
John Hauser, the defensive coordinator, has been named interim head coach as the university announced it will begin a search for a permanent head coach immediately. The Ohio Bobcats are scheduled to play UNLV in the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl on December 23, 2025.
Smith had been placed on leave on December 1, 2025, for undisclosed reasons. He was initially promoted from offensive coordinator to interim head coach after Tim Albin left for Charlotte. Smith’s attorney, Rex Elliott, denied any wrongdoing, calling the termination wrongful and emphasizing that Smith is an ethical man who has done an exemplary job.
Prior to coaching at Ohio University, Smith coached at Washington State and Hawaii and also played at Hawaii as an offensive lineman and long snapper. He is 45 years old.
