The Wisconsin Badgers The school announced Sunday night that they have fired their head football coach, Paul Chryst. Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhart will serve as the team’s interim coach.
The move represents a stunning turn of events for Christian, who won at least 10 games in four of his first five seasons while guiding Wisconsin to three Big Ten Championship Game appearances. But production on the field steadily declined following the 2019 Rose Bowl campaign.
Wisconsin athletic director Chris McIntosh said, “After a heartfelt and honest conversation with Coach Chris for the long-term benefit of our football program, I have decided it is time for a leadership change. “Paul is a man of integrity who loves his players. I have great respect and admiration for Paul and his and his family’s legacy at the University of Wisconsin.
Wisconsin rallied to win its final two games to finish a pandemic-shortened 2020 season 4-3. The Badgers were in position to claim the Big Ten West title last season but suffered a 23-13 loss to the rival. Minnesota Went 9-4 overall in the regular-season finale. Wisconsin is 2-3 this season and has lost all three of its games against Power 5 opponents.
Washington State The Badgers beat Wisconsin 17-14 in Week 2 despite being 17.