ATHENS, Ohio – In a significant announcement on December 18, Ohio University Director of Athletics Julie Cromer revealed that Brian Smith has been promoted to head football coach, marking him as the 30th head coach in the program's illustrious history.

Cromer expressed her enthusiasm regarding Smith's promotion, emphasizing the remarkable trajectory of Ohio Bobcat Football in recent years. "Brian Smith has been a pivotal part of our MAC Championship team and our winning culture," she stated. "He not only stood out during our national search among many outstanding candidates, but he also presented a comprehensive plan to not only sustain, but enhance our football program in the competitive world of college athletics."

Smith’s priorities resonate strongly with the values of Ohio University, focusing on enriching student-athlete experiences and fostering community engagement (including developing leaders and dedicated graduates). "I am grateful to our former players for their assistance in identifying the best leader for our program," Cromer added. "We are excited that Coach Smith has accepted the charge to guide us into a new chapter for Bobcat Football."

Ohio University President Lori Stewart Gonzalez echoed Cromer’s sentiments, praising Smith’s relentless dedication to excellence. She stated, "He embodies the values of our community and has been instrumental in our football program’s recent achievements."

In response to his appointment, Smith expressed pride and commitment, acknowledging the strong foundation laid by former coaches Frank Solich and Tim Albin. "Our culture and values will continue to thrive, producing outstanding young men who excel on and off the field,” he said.

Having stepped in as interim head coach just a week prior to his official promotion, Smith has been a vital asset to the team since joining as an associate head coach in 2023. He also took on the role of offensive coordinator in 2024, leading the team's offense to impressive metrics that included topping the Mid-American Conference (MAC) in scoring and yardage.

In 2024, Smith’s offensive strategy yielded a remarkable average of 29.2 points per game, alongside a total offensive yardage of 5,198 yards. Running back Anthony Tyus III emerged as the MAC rushing leader with 1,111 yards, while quarterback Parker Navarro garnered national attention, ranking in the top 10 for rushing yards among quarterbacks with 943 yards.

Smith's coaching prowess was on full display during the 2024 MAC Championship, where the Bobcats achieved a historic 38-3 victory over Miami, accumulating 467 total yards of offense. Navarro’s standout performance included 235 passing yards and four touchdowns.

Under Smith's guidance, the Bobcats have seen a surge in recognition, with 11 All-MAC offensive honorees, an offensive MAC Player of the Year in quarterback Kurtis Rourke, and MAC Freshman of the Year honors awarded to Sieh Bangura. Additionally, the team has celebrated victories in both the Arizona Bowl and the Myrtle Beach Bowl, with running back Rickey Hunt Jr. earning the MVP title in the latter for his remarkable five-touchdown game.

Before his tenure at Ohio, Smith’s coaching credentials included significant roles at Washington State and Hawaii, where he was known for developing strong offenses and mentoring players who would go on to achieve success at the professional level.

An accomplished player himself, Smith was a long snapper and center at Hawaii before embarking on a professional career with the Baltimore Ravens and Green Bay Packers. He holds a bachelor's degree from Hawaii and a master's from California Lutheran. He resides in Athens with his wife, Liane, and daughter, Chloe.

The Bobcats are set to face off against Jacksonville State in the upcoming StaffDNA Cure Bowl on December 20, with the game broadcasting live on ESPN at noon. For ticket information, fans can visit OhioBobcats.com/CureBowl2024.

Stay tuned for more updates as Brian Smith leads the Bobcats into an exciting new era of Ohio Football! Follow Ohio Football on Twitter @OhioFootball and Instagram @OhioFB to keep track of the latest news and developments.