West Virginia Mountaineers Coach Neal Brown Fired After 6-6 Season
West Virginia University announced on Sunday that they have fired head football coach Neal Brown after finishing the season with a 6-6 record. Athletic director Wren Baker made the decision, stating that Brown and his family will be wished the best in their future endeavors.
Brown had been with the Mountaineers for six seasons, accumulating an overall record of 37-35. Despite his efforts, the team never competed for a Big 12 championship or secured a spot in the AP Top 25 poll. Additionally, they struggled against ranked opponents, losing nine consecutive games.
The decision to fire Brown comes after a period of speculation about his future with the team, with fans growing increasingly agitated with the team’s performance. West Virginia’s offensive production declined, and the defense struggled with passing yards allowed. They lost four times at home this season and found themselves outscored in the second half in 10 out of 12 games.
The search for a new head coach will begin immediately, and the team will soon learn their bowl opponent. Brown will receive a $9.5 million buyout for the remaining three years of his contract. Under Brown’s leadership, the Mountaineers had their worst six-year stretch since the early ’60s.
Baker’s decision to fire Brown signals a shift in leadership for West Virginia football, as they aim to improve their performance and return to championship contention in the Big 12.
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