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De'ja` Vu in Mount Pleasant as Jones Moves to Cincy |
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MOUNT PLEASEANT, Mi. – Central Michigan’s success on the gridiron has once again led to the loss of a coach, and once again the destination is Cincinnati.
Three years ago, CMU head coach Brian Kelly accepted a job at Cincinnati. Wednesday, Central Michigan coach Butch Jones accepted the Cincinnati job, which was vacated when Kelly opted for Notre Dame after leading the Bearcats to an undefeated season and Sugar Bowl berth.
Jones was an attractive candidate for a number of reasons, including his success and experience as a head coach. He also employs an offense which should allow Cincinnati to make an almost seamless transition on that side of the ball.
“We are very thankful for the contributions Butch Jones has made to our football program, our university and our community,” CMU Director of Athletics Dave Heeke said. ”Any opportunity that arises for him is a reflection of the high-quality student-athletes and strong tradition that Central Michigan has enjoyed. We are excited to be a top-25 program preparing for our fourth consecutive bowl game. We wish him and his family all the best at the University of Cincinnati.”
In addition to his comments on Jones, Heeke also announced that associate head coach Steve Stripling would serve as interim head coach and guide the Chippewas through their Jan. 6 GMAC Bowl game. Mid-American Conference champ Central Michigan (11-2) faces Sun Belt Conference champion Troy (9-3) in that contest.
“I have great confidence in Steve’s ability to lead our football program through the GMAC Bowl,” Heeke said. “He has served us well as associate head coach and his many years of experience have earned him the respect of our players.”
“Stripling joined the CMU staff in 2009 as the associate head coach for defense and also coached defensive ends. Prior to CMU, he coached at Michigan (2005-07), Michigan State (2003-04), Minnesota (1997-2000) and Indiana (1984-96).
Heeke or any other staff members who express interest in the head coaching vacancy would receive consideration, along with outside candidates. A number of inquiries have already been received.
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