What is Brian Smith's attorney's response to the firing?

Smith's attorney disputes the grounds for termination and plans to fight the decision, stating it is a wrongful termination.

Will Brian Smith coach the Ohio Bobcats in their bowl game?

No, Brian Smith was placed on leave in early December and will not be coaching the Ohio Bobcats in their upcoming bowl game.

Home / Sports / Ohio Coach Fired Amid Contract Dispute

Ohio Coach Fired Amid Contract Dispute

Q: Why was Brian Smith fired as Ohio Bobcats coach?

Brian Smith was fired for cause due to alleged serious professional misconduct and activities reflecting unfavorably on the university.

18 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Ohio Bobcats coach Brian Smith was fired for cause due to misconduct.
Smith's attorney stated they dispute the grounds for termination.
The team is preparing for a bowl game without their head coach.

Brian Smith, the head coach of the Ohio Bobcats, has been terminated for cause by the university. The program cited serious professional misconduct and activities reflecting unfavorably on the institution as reasons for the dismissal. Smith's attorney, Rex Elliott, released a statement expressing shock and dismay, asserting that they vigorously dispute the grounds for termination and plan to fight the decision.

Despite the controversy, the Ohio Bobcats achieved an 8-4 regular season record under Smith's leadership. However, he was placed on leave earlier in December and will not be coaching in the upcoming bowl game. The university has not detailed the specific nature of the alleged misconduct, leaving many questions unanswered.

As Smith begins his search for a new job, the Bobcats are preparing to face the UNLV Rebels in the Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl. This marks the first head coaching role for Smith, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Bobcats.