By Adam Brown
Sports Editor
adam.brown@hottytoddy.com
Ole Miss announced on Sunday that head coach Matt Luke has been fired. The Rebels finished the 2019 season with a 4-8 overall record and a 2-6 SEC mark after a 21-20 loss to in-state rival Mississippi State on Thursday.
Athletic Director Keith Carter released a statement to Rebel fans about Luke:
“After evaluating the overall trajectory of our football program, we did not see enough momentum on the field and determined a change is necessary in order for our student-athletes to compete at the highest level,” Carter said. “While improvements were evident in certain aspects of the program, we are judged ultimately by our record, and, unfortunately, we did not meet the standard of success that we expect from our program. We will always be grateful to Coach Luke for his leadership, particularly from a recruiting, academic and overall culture standpoint. At the same time, winning is important, and we know that we can compete for championships at Ole Miss.
“A search is underway to find a new head coach who can build a complete program that attracts top talent, develops them as young men and sustains a winning mentality. We will be looking for the leadership, energy and commitment to excellence necessary to compete in the Southeastern Conference and galvanize our passionate fan base.”
Luke was introduced on Nov. 27, 2017 after being the interim coach for a season. During his tenure, he compiled a 15-21 record in three seasons.
“I want to thank Coach Luke for his devotion to Ole Miss,” Carter said. “His integrity, class and dedication to this program and our student-athletes are unsurpassed, and we will always appreciate how he stepped up at a time when his university needed him the most. We wish him the very best, and he will always be a cherished member of the Ole Miss family.”
Follow Hottytoddy.com as the story develops. A press conference is slated for Monday at 11 a.m.
