Former Ohio coach Brian Smith sues university over firing, seeks damages including contract balance

” Personnel records obtained by The Associated Press through a public records request alleged Smith's “participation in extramarital affairs,” including with an undergraduate student, and “alcohol-related conduct. " Smith’s attorney, Rex Elliott, said in a statement that “the University breached his employment agreement by wrongfully terminating him based on conduct and allegations that fall nowhere near the standard required under his contract. ” The lawsuit was filed Friday in the Ohio Court of Claims in Columbus because it is against a University System of Ohio institution and Smith is seeking equitable relief.

Smith is seeking compensatory damages — including the value of the remaining contract — consequential damages, interest, attorneys’ fees and additional relief permitted under Ohio law. “The University rushed to judgment, ignored its contractual obligations, and prioritized its financial interest over a fair process,” Elliott said. “This case is about accountability.

OU’s actions have irreparably harmed Coach Smith’s coaching career, and he is owed the full balance of his contractually agreed-upon compensation. ” Smith signed a five-year contract in December 2024 after being promoted from offensive coordinator. It had a base salary of $615,000 per season as well as $135,000 in supplemental compensation and retention bonuses of $50,000 every six months.

There were also performance bonuses for on-field and academic benchmarks. University spokesman Dan Pittman said in a statement: “As the University stated in December 2025 , Brian Smith’s termination for cause was based on violations of the established terms within his employment agreement. This lawsuit is unfounded, and the University will strongly defend itself in court.