Nearly one year ago at a news conference, MSU President Lou Anna Simon publicly endorsed John L. Smith. Wednesday, she was behind the microphone again, announcing he had been fired.

With Athletic Director Ron Mason by her side, Simon said their goal is to have the greatest success for MSU and for Spartan football. The two talked Tuesday night and independently came to the conclusion that Smith should be fired.

Simon had a conference call with board members Wednesday morning before the afternoon news conference. Board of Trustees Chairperson David Porteous said the board supports the decision and the vision the pair has for the football program.

Simon and Mason will lead the search for a new head coach and ultimately the board will have to vote that person in.