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The Ohio Bobcats named interim head coach John Hauser as the team’s new head coach on Friday.
Hauser, who was named the interim head coach, replaces Brian Smith, who was fired for having alcohol in his office and for having an alleged affair with an undergraduate student, according to multiple reports. Smith was placed on administrative leave in early December and was fired on December 18 for serious professional misconduct.
Hauser led the Bobcats to a 17-10 Frisco Bowl victory over UNLV on Tuesday night at the Ford Center. Now, just a few days after leading Ohio to their seventh straight bowl victory, Hauser had the temporary 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 the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas on Dec. 23, 2025. (Tim Heitman/Getty Images)
“We are excited to announce John Hauser as our next head football coach. John is committed to developing our team as he continues to build on that strong foundation. The success has been 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 everything that goes into our winning program. In addition, he is 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 on Ohio University and Bobcat football.”
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Ohio interim head coach John Hauser is out after winning the Frisco Bowl against UNLV in Frisco, Texas on Dec. 23, 2025. (LM Otero/AP photo)
Hauser joined Ohio in 2022 as the safeties coach. He was promoted to defensive passing coordinator in 2023 and defensive coordinator prior to the 2024 season. Hauser was also the associate head coach this season, becoming the 31st coach in school history.
“I am grateful to President Lori Gonzalez and Director of Athletics Slade Larscheid for the opportunity to lead this team and for their belief in what we can accomplish together. I want to thank our players, alumni and fans for the support they have shown this program and for the pride they bring to Ohio University,” Hauser said.
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“This is a special place for my family and I, and we are proud to be part of a community that cares so much about Ohio University and its football program. I look forward to getting started with the team as we look forward to building on the program’s tradition of success in 2026 and beyond.”
