MUNCIE, Ind. — Following a disappointing stretch, Ball State University has decided to part ways with head coach Mike Neu after four consecutive seasons of losses, a stark contrast to his achievement of securing the Mid-American Conference (MAC) title in the past.
Athletic director Jeff Mitchell announced that offensive line coach Colin Johnson will take over as the interim head coach for the last two games of the season. Johnson, much like Neu, is also an alumnus of Ball State.
Neu dedicated nine years to the football program at Ball State, but managed to produce just one season with a winning record. That notable year was 2020, when the Cardinals recorded a 7-1 record (5-1 in MAC play) and captured the MAC championship during a season abbreviated by the COVID-19 pandemic. They concluded the season ranked No. 23 nationally.
Throughout his tenure, Neu’s teams struggled to maintain consistent success, securing five wins in both 2019 and 2022 and achieving six victories in 2021. However, in five other seasons, they failed to surpass four wins. The team’s recent performance led to a record of 3-7 following a thrilling 51-48 loss against Buffalo, which leaves Neu with an overall coaching record of 40 wins and 63 losses.
As the season comes to an end, Ball State has two remaining games: the home finale against Bowling Green next Saturday, followed by a matchup against Ohio.
Mitchell emphasized in an official statement from the athletic department that the process of conducting a nationwide search for a new head coach will begin immediately.