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In a year in which the hot seat was essentially eliminated, we’ve already seen a coaching change in college football.
On Monday, Southern Miss head coach Jay Hopson stepped down from his position. The school’s athletic department released a statement on Hopson’s decision in the afternoon. Hopson’s decision comes just a few days after the Golden Eagles opened the 2020 campaign on Thursday night against South Alabama.
The Golden Eagles lost 32-21 in the opener.
“Coach Hopson came to me after last Thursday’s game to discuss what was on his heart and after much discussion over the weekend, he and I agreed that new leadership for our football program is needed,” said Southern Miss athletic director Jeremy McClain. “Coach Hopson has been part of our program for 10 years. I appreciate his commitment to Southern Miss and wish Jay and his family nothing but the best.”
Hopson was the head coach at Southern Miss for five seasons and led the team to a 28-23 record with appearances in three bowl games. Before becoming the head coach, Hopson had two stops in Hattiesburg as an assistant, 2001-03 and 2005-07.
“After heartfelt discussions with Jeremy, we have come to a mutual agreement for me to step down as head coach,” Hopson said. “I am in total agreement with this change in leadership and truly believe it is in the best interest of the players, coaches, and this entire program. I cannot thank Dr. Bennett and our administration enough for the opportunity that they gave me. I wish Southern Miss nothing but the best and am thankful for all that they have done for me and my family.”
Scotty Walden, the teams co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach, has been named the interim head coach. He is entering his fourth year with the program.
Southern Miss is back on the field on Saturday, Sept. 19 to take on Louisiana Tech.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB