After over a decade as the first head football coach in Kennesaw State history, Brian Bohannon denied reports that he had stepped down from the position, claiming he had been terminated.
At 1:27 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, Pete Nakos of On3sports first reported that Bohannon had been fired as Owls head coach.
KSUowls.com, the official website of KSU athletics, reported shortly after at 2:44 p.m. that Bohannon had informed athletic director Milton Overton he was stepping down.
“Coach Brian Bohannon informed me this morning that he has decided to step down as our head football coach,”said KSU Director of Athletics Milton Overton. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to Coach Bohannon and his family for their dedication to Kennesaw State University and our football program over the past 11 years. Coach Bohannon led Kennesaw State into the football era, poured his heart and soul into this program, and represented our university with the highest standards of professionalism and character.”
Bohannon responded on an X (formerly known as Twitter) post, insisting that he was informed by Overton on Sunday morning there would be a change in leadership.
“This morning I was informed directly from AD Overton that he was making a change in leadership. Contrary to what’s been reported, I want to be clear that I did not step down from my position as head football coach at Kennesaw State University. Since we started the football program, I have had the pleasure of coaching and working alongside so many great people. I appreciate your hard work and dedication to this program.”
Several members of the football team took to social media shortly after the announcement, including Bohannon’s sons, Blake and Braden. Blake, a starting receiver for the Owls claimed in an X post that his father did not resign, but was terminated.
“@BohannonBrian was an amazing coach and even better Dad. It was the best decision I have ever made to come play for you @kennesawstfb. You helped me develop not only as a player, but as a man. I strive to be more like you every day. I will miss playing for you Dad. Also, @BohannonBrian did not step down, he was fired. He would never quit on us.”
Braden, who plays quarterback for the team also echoed his gratitude and claimed that his father did not step down on an X post.
“@BohannonBrian is the most stand up, honest, and genuine father/coach that I could have ever asked for. There is no other head coach I would have wanted to play for, nor that could have accomplished the incredible accolades that he achieved. During his time at @kennesawstfb he not only built the program from the ground up but he helped turn boys into well rounded young men. With that being said he would never “step away” from this program willingly, he was fired in the incorrect way. Love you Dad #HELLYEAH.”
Current offensive coordinator and former Owls quarterback Chandler Burks was named interim head coach for the remainder of the 2024-25 season, according to KSUowls.com.
Bohannon held a 72-38 record in his tenure at KSU, leading the Owls to four FCS playoff appearances and their first FBS victory over Liberty this season.
