Ohio University hires coach to replace Brian Smith, who had controversial exit from school

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The Ohio Bobcats named interim head coach John Hauser as the team's new head coach Friday.

Hauser, who had been the interim head coach, replaces Brian Smith, who was fired for allegedly having alcohol in his office and having an alleged affair with an undergraduate student, according to multiple reports. Smith was placed on administrative leave at the beginning of December and was fired Dec. 18 for serious professional misconduct.

Hauser led the Bobcats to a 17-10 Frisco Bowl win over UNLV Tuesday night at the Ford Center. Now, just a few days after leading Ohio to their seventh straight bowl win, Hauser has had the interim tag removed.

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Ohio head coach John Hauser stands on the field during the second half against the UNLV Rebels at the Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl at Ford Center in Frisco, Texas, Dec. 23, 2025. (Tim Heitman/Getty Images)

"We are thrilled to announce John Hauser as our next head football coach. John is committed to developing our team while continuing to build on the strong foundation. The success is evident since he arrived on campus in 2022," Ohio University director of athletics Slade Larscheid said in a statement.

"Over the past four seasons, Ohio football has won 40 games, and John is a key piece in all that goes into our winning program. Additionally, he's a proven leader, and his focus will be on the student-athlete experience, both on and off the field. We look forward to John and his family making an immediate impact for Ohio University and Bobcat football."

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Ohio interim head coach John