http://www.chicagotribune.com/sport...d-illinois-football-coach-20160305-story.html
In his first official day on the job, Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman made a stunning move Saturday by announcing the firing of football coach Bill Cubit.
Whitman also announced John Groce will remain Illinois' head basketball coach.
Whitman, a former Illini football player, said the Cubit decision was based on “providing stability,” according to a news release.
Cubit was named the interim head coach on Aug. 28 after former athletic director Mike Thomas fired Tim Beckman following an investigation into claims of player mistreatment. Cubit led Illinois to a 5-7 overall record and 2-6 mark in the Big Ten.
He was awarded with a two-year contract extension.
Cubit will receive about $985,000 as part of a buyout.
Whitman said he would name a new head coach as soon as possible.
In his first official day on the job, Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman made a stunning move Saturday by announcing the firing of football coach Bill Cubit.
Whitman also announced John Groce will remain Illinois' head basketball coach.
Whitman, a former Illini football player, said the Cubit decision was based on “providing stability,” according to a news release.
Cubit was named the interim head coach on Aug. 28 after former athletic director Mike Thomas fired Tim Beckman following an investigation into claims of player mistreatment. Cubit led Illinois to a 5-7 overall record and 2-6 mark in the Big Ten.
He was awarded with a two-year contract extension.
Cubit will receive about $985,000 as part of a buyout.
Whitman said he would name a new head coach as soon as possible.
