The Paul Chryst era in Wisconsin is suddenly over. Chryst was fired Sunday, a day after a 10-34 loss to Illinois and former head coach Bret Bielema that dropped the Badgers to 3-2. Interim boss becomes defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard.
“After a heartfelt and genuine conversation with Coach Chryst about what is in the long-term best interest of our football program, I have concluded that now is the time for a leadership change,” said sporting director Chris McIntosh in a press release. “Paul is a man of integrity who loves his players. I have great respect and admiration for Paul and his and his family’s legacy at the University of Wisconsin.
“I also have faith in Jim Leonhard who will lead the program for the remainder of the season. There is still a long season to go and I know Jim will do a great job while the program is under his leadership.”
Chryst went 67-26 as Wisconsin head coach, including 9-4 last season. He won three Big Ten West Division championships and reached three New Year’s Six Bowl games, winning two of them. However, the Badgers haven’t been at their level for a while. They are 15-10 for the past three seasons and have already lost two home games at Camp Randall Stadium this year, along with a 52-21 loss at Ohio State.
Chryst’s 67 wins in Wisconsin are the third most in program history. Bielema is second with 68.