As Ohio University prepares to face the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) in the Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl on December 23, the football program is grappling with the sudden dismissal of Head Coach Brian Smith. The university announced Smith's termination on Wednesday, December 17, citing "serious professional misconduct" and activities that reflected unfavorably on the university as the cause.
The allegations against Smith include violating his employment agreement through an extramarital affair with an undergraduate student and violating school policies regarding alcohol. Reports indicate that Smith allegedly acknowledged storing and consuming alcohol in his office during work hours and that assistant coaches sometimes joined him for a drink after games. While Smith denies working under the influence and maintains that his job performance was never affected, the university proceeded with his termination. Smith's attorney disputes the university's claims and intends to fight the termination.
Despite the turmoil, the Ohio Bobcats (8-4) are trying to focus on their upcoming bowl game against the UNLV Rebels (10-3). Defensive coordinator John Hauser has been appointed as the interim coach and is tasked with preparing the team for the Frisco Bowl. Hauser emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and using the bowl game as a reward for the players, especially the seniors. He aims to ensure they are sent out the right way.
The Bobcats will rely on key players like quarterback Parker Navarro, who has thrown for 2,232 yards and 14 touchdowns, and running back Sieh Bangura, who has rushed for 1,243 yards and 14 touchdowns. Wide receiver Chase Hendricks, with 67 receptions for 950 yards and seven touchdowns, will also be a significant offensive threat. Ohio's offense averages 416.7 yards per game, with a strong rushing game that ranks 9th in the FBS at 229.1 yards per game. The Ohio defense allows 358 yards per game.
UNLV, led by first-year coach Dan Mullen, is coming off a 38-21 loss to Boise State in the Mountain West Conference championship game. Junior quarterback Anthony Colandrea, named Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year, leads the Rebels' offense. Colandrea has passed for 3,275 yards and 23 touchdowns. Running back Jai'Den Thomas has contributed 985 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. UNLV's offense is potent, averaging 35.9 points and 459.1 total yards per game.
This will be only the second meeting between Ohio and UNLV. The first game was in 1988, which UNLV won 26-18. UNLV is favored to win the game, with a spread of -6.5 points. The over/under is set at 64.5 total points.
The Frisco Bowl is scheduled for Tuesday, December 23, at 9:00 p.m. ET at the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.
