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The Ohio Bobcats named interim head coach John Hauser as the team’s head coach on Friday.
Hauser, who was named interim head coach, replaces Brian Smith, who was fired for drinking alcohol in his office and having an alleged affair with an undergraduate student, according to multiple reports. Smith was placed on administrative leave in early December and was terminated on December 18 for serious professional misconduct.
Hauser led the Bobcats to a 17-10 Frisco Bowl victory over UNLV Tuesday night at the Ford Center. Now, just days after leading Ohio to its seventh straight bowl victory, 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 the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas on December 23, 2025. (Tim Heitman/Getty Images)
“We are excited to announce John Hauser as our next head football coach. John is committed to growing our team while continuing to build on a strong foundation. Success has been evident since he arrived on campus in 2022,” Ohio University Athletic Director Slade Larscheid said in a statement.
“Over the past four seasons, Ohio football has won 40 games, and John is a key part of everything that goes into our winning program. Additionally, he is a proven leader and will focus 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 hosed after winning the Frisco Bowl against UNLV in Frisco, Texas on December 23, 2025. (LM Otero/AP Photo)
Hauser came to Ohio in 2022 as the safeties coach. He was promoted to defensive passing game coordinator in 2023 and defensive coordinator ahead of the 2024 season. Hauser also served as associate head coach this season and now becomes the 31st coach in school history.
“I am grateful to President Lori Gonzalez and Athletic Director Slade Larscheid for the opportunity to lead this team and for their confidence in what we can accomplish together. I would like 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 deeply about Ohio University and its football program. I look forward to getting started with the team as we look to build on the program’s tradition of success in 2026 and beyond.”
