Ohio University and Former Coach Brian Smith Clash Over Contract Breach Allegations in Court Filing
Smith alleges the institution rushed an unfair process to destroy his reputation, while the university insists the termination for cause was based on established contractual violations.
A wrongful termination lawsuit has been filed in the Ohio Court of Claims by former head football coach Brian Smith against Ohio University. The complaint, filed in May 2026, asserts that the university breached his employment contract by terminating him for cause in December without conducting a meaningful investigation or adhering to the procedural standards outlined in his agreement.
Smith contends that the administration rushed an unfair process designed to damage his career and reputation before justifying the decision. The lawsuit disputes the university's characterization of his dismissal, arguing that the allegations of professional misconduct were never proven or subjected to the fair and contractual process promised to the coach.
The core of the dispute centres on the university's stated reasons for the firing, which included alleged extramarital affairs and alcohol-related conduct. Smith's legal team challenges the use of a prior corrective reprimand and a consensual adult relationship as grounds for termination, noting that his divorce proceedings were underway at the time of the alleged relationship.
Attorney Rex Elliott, representing Smith, argues that the university's actions have caused irreparable harm to the coach's career. Consequently, the complaint seeks the remaining balance of the contractually agreed-upon compensation, asserting that Smith is owed the full sum guaranteed under his agreement.
Ohio University has officially refuted the lawsuit, maintaining that Smith was fired for violating established terms within his employment agreement. A statement from the institution described the case as unfounded and confirmed that the university will strongly defend itself in court, declining to comment further on the pending litigation.
The dismissal occurred on December 17, following an administrative review into serious professional misconduct that the university claimed brought disrepute and scandal to the school. Defensive coordinator John Hauser was named interim coach at the time of the firing and was subsequently appointed the full-time head coach for the 2026 season.
