After seven years, the Mark Hudspeth era at the University of Louisiana is over. He was relieved of his duties on Sunday morning following a 63-14 loss in Boone, North Carolina to Appalachian State.
“This decision was based on the lack of progress made throughout the season and inconsistent play along with a sense of apathy surrounding our program.” Director of Athletics Dr. Bryan Maggard said on Sunday afternoon, “I felt like this was shown through significant drops in ticket sales and attendance, which created residual decreases in revenue areas such as concessions, giving, parking etc.”
During his time at the university, he went 51-38 and led the Cajuns to five appearances in the New Orleans Bowl. “Coach Hudspeth has established a level of relevance that certainly heightened the expectations in Ragin Cajuns football fans and he is leaving the program in better shape than when he arrived.” Maggard said, “We wish he and his family the very best as they move forward and I know Cajun Nation joins me in thanking him for everything he has done for the university, the athletics department, and certainly our football program.”
Running backs coach Michael Desormeaux has been named the acting head coach. The search for a new head coach will begin immediately.
-Clint Domingue