MUNCIE, Ind. — On Nov. 16, Ball State head football coach Mike Neu was fired mid-season following a fourth consecutive losing season for the Cardinals. President Mearns spoke on the decision, and what the university is looking for in the next coach.
Mearns explained that coaches are historically evaluated at the end of a season, but the changing nature of the transfer portal is creating urgency.
“It’s a much more difficult job than it was 24 years ago,” he said. “There’s so much more flexibility [now] that they’re recruiting student-athletes 365 days of the year.”
Mearns noted that they are searching for a coach who can adapt to the transfer portal and “embody the values of the institution”.
The university president also noted that he admires the now-former coach, “He’s an outstanding person: Somebody of high character, high integrity.”
The athletic department said a national search for a replacement would begin immediately.
Offensive line coach Colin Johnson will serve as interim head coach.
Contact NewsLink staff or Kate Farr with comments at newslink@bsu.edu or kate.farr@bsu.edu.
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