ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The University of Michigan has fired head football coach Brady Hoke after the team posted a 5-7 record and failed to earn a trip to a bowl game.
Hoke was hired to the position in January 2011 after coach Rich Rodriguez got the boot. The school still owes Hoke $3 million. Interim athletic director Jim Hackett held a news conference Tuesday afternoon.
"This was not an easy decision," said Hackett. "Everywhere I go there is zero question about Brady's values."
Watch: Hackett's statement on Hoke firing
30023350
Hoke's successor has not been named yet. Hackett said he is using a head-hunting firm to help with the search for a new coach.
In four seasons at the helm of Michigan football, Hoke posted an overall record of 31-20 with one postseason victory (2012 Sugar Bowl). His most successful season was his first one when the Wolverines went 11-2 before beating Virginia Tech, 23-20 (OT), in the Sugar Bowl.
Hoke's team has been on a steady decline since that season. They went 8-5 in 2012 and 7-6 in 2013. This year, however, was the first time his team failed to get into a bowl game. They needed six wins.
Hoke's tenure included poor performances against rival Ohio State (1-3) and in-state rival Michigan State (1-3).
Dave Brandon resigned from his position as athletic director in October after criticism for the handling of concussed football player Shane Morris.