Jonathan Suarez | Sports Director
FIU has fired Head Football Coach Mike MacIntyre, and the search for his replacement is underway.
MacIntyre was dismissed after leading the program to three consecutive 4-8 seasons, during which FIU consistently ranked near the bottom of Conference USA.
Athletic Director Scott Carr stated, “This decision was based solely on on-field results, and at this time, I felt our program needed to move in a different direction.”
“I want to thank Mike for pouring three years of his heart and soul into the program and for solidifying the foundation,” said Carr. “Coach Mac inherited a challenging situation three years ago, but he improved numerous areas within the program – from posting our highest-ever GPA to bettering the operations and budgets – and the culture shift has been evident.”
MacIntyre took over the program in 2021, succeeding Butch Davis, who had led the Golden Panthers to a combined 1-16 record over his final two seasons.
Before joining FIU, MacIntyre served as defensive coordinator for the Memphis Tigers (2020–2021) and Ole Miss (2019).
In addition to disappointing on-field performance, MacIntyre has faced recent controversy over public comments and allegations of verbal and physical abuse from former players.
MacIntyre’s hiring had been questioned from the start, as his coaching track record includes a history of underperformance.
Over 14 years as a head coach, he posted winning records in only two seasons: 2016 at Colorado (10-4) and 2012 at San Jose State (10-2).
FIU will now owe MacIntyre between $1.5 million and $2 million to buy out the remainder of his contract.
The timing of the firing creates additional challenges, with Early Signing Day just days away. FIU currently has 11 commitments, according to 247Sports, but it remains unclear how many will sign.
Recruiting struggles could worsen without immediate stability, and the new head coach will need to retain key talent already on the roster.
Quarterback Keyone Jenkins and star wide receiver Eric Rivers are considered foundational pieces for FIU’s future.
Wide receiver Dean Patterson has already announced his intention to enter the transfer portal.
As speculation begins over MacIntyre’s replacement, one potential candidate is UCF Offensive Coordinator Tim Harris Jr. Harris previously coached at FIU, overseeing a rushing attack led by D’vonte Price, who averaged 116.2 yards per game, ranked 11th nationally, and recorded several standout performances, including a 178-yard game against Florida Atlantic.
Defensive Coordinator Jovan Dewitt will serve as interim head coach for the Golden Panthers.
About Post Author
