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The Miami football program will have to begin a search for a new head coach. On Sunday, December 30, Hurricanes head coach Mark Richt sent a letter to athletic director Blake James and his players informing them that he has made the decision to step down from his position.
The decision comes following a disappointing 35-3 shellacking at the hands of the Wisconsin Badgers at the Pinstripe Bowl.
Campus Sports obtained a copy of the letter that was sent out to the team.
It read:
Men:
I just informed Director of Athletics Blake James that I am stepping down as your head coach. I wish I could inform you in person but with everyone split around the country for break, text is the fastest way for you to learn of my decision and I want you to hear it first. Coaching you has been the honor of a lifetime and I am so grateful for your passion and dedication to excellence. I am confident that The U will find an outstanding head coach to lead you forward. Enjoy the New Year and your time off.
James is reportedly “in shock” over the decision.
Just spoke to Miami AD Blake James. He said he’s “in shock” over Mark Richt’s decision to step down at Miami.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 30, 2018
In Richt’s first season leading Miami, he led the program to a 9-4 record and win in the Russell Athletic Bowl. In 2017, the Richt-led Hurricanes continued to improve and claimed the ACC Coastal Division championship with a 10-3 overall record and 7-1 mark in ACC play.
This season, however, it was a big step back for the program.
Miami struggled in conference play and recorded a lackluster 4-4 record. The team’s overall record was 7-6 on the season, ending with two straight losses.
We will have to see who the Hurricanes turn to in another attempt to right the ship.
