The 8-4 Ohio Bobcats were thrown an unexpected curve ahead of bowl season when the program announced that head coach Brian Smith has been placed on indefinite leave.

The school did not disclose the reason, but it confirmed that defensive coordinator and associate head coach Jon Hauser will take over on an interim basis . The university released a formal statement outlining the transition, noting Hauser’s rapid rise within the staff and his impact on the program’s recent success.

“John Hauser has been named Interim Head Coach of the Ohio football program,” the statement read. “Hauser has served as associate head coach and defensive coordinator for the Bobcats since December 2024 and has been with the team since 2022. Head Coach Brian Smith will be on leave for an undetermined period o

See Full Page