The sudden dismissal of Kennesaw State University's head football coach, Brian Bohannon, has sent shockwaves through the college sports community. Bohannon, who had been instrumental in building the Owls' program from the ground up, was reportedly let go in a manner that his own sons have described as "incorrect." This unexpected move has sparked an outpouring of support from players, coaches, and fans alike, who have praised Bohannon's leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his team.

A Beloved Coach's Unceremonious Departure

The Owls' Perspective: Shock and Disbelief

Bohannon's sons, Braden and Blake, both players on the Owls' roster, took to social media to express their disappointment and disbelief at their father's dismissal. Braden, the team's quarterback, stated that Bohannon "would never 'step away' from this program willingly" and that he was "fired in the incorrect way." Blake, a wide receiver, echoed these sentiments, saying that Bohannon "would never quit on us" and that he was "fired" rather than stepping down.

The Outpouring of Support: Tributes from Players and Fans

The news of Bohannon's dismissal has sparked an outpouring of support from players, coaches, and fans alike. Many have taken to social media to express their gratitude for Bohannon's leadership and the positive impact he had on their lives. One player, Jackson Manning, expressed his gratitude for Bohannon giving him the opportunity to return to his hometown and continue playing the sport he loves, praising the coach's "leadership and care for us players" as "rare in college football today." Another player, Carson Kent, thanked Bohannon for taking a chance on him and allowing him to walk on, earn a scholarship, and chase his dreams of playing college football, saying he "wouldn't be where I am today" without the coach's support.

Bohannon's Coaching Legacy: Building a Program from the Ground Up

Bohannon was hired in 2013 to create the Owls' football program from scratch, and he had been at the helm ever since. Under his leadership, the team made four FCS playoff appearances, and in 2022, Bohannon received a contract extension through 2026. However, the Owls' move to FBS play in 2024 has been a challenging one, with the team recording only one win so far this season, a stunning upset of Liberty in October.

The University's Response: Interim Head Coach and Lack of Media Availability

Kennesaw State University's press release announced that co-offensive coordinator Chandler Burks would assume the position of interim head coach for the remainder of the 2024 season. The university also stated that there would be no media availability for football this week, further fueling speculation and questions surrounding Bohannon's dismissal.

The Lasting Impact of a Beloved Coach

Despite the abrupt and seemingly unjust nature of Bohannon's dismissal, the outpouring of support from players, coaches, and fans alike is a testament to the lasting impact he had on the Owls' program and the lives of those he coached. His wife, Melanie Bohannon, described him as "honest, loyal, hardworking, fair, and most importantly, he lives his life with integrity," adding that he "doesn't quit anything." This sentiment is echoed by the players, who have expressed their admiration and gratitude for the coach they will always look up to.As the Owls move forward with an interim head coach, the legacy of Brian Bohannon will undoubtedly continue to shape the program and the lives of the young men he mentored. The sudden and controversial nature of his departure may have left many unanswered questions, but the unwavering support and respect he has earned from his players and the community he served will undoubtedly endure.