Utah State head football coach Blake Anderson was fired for failing to properly report a domestic violence incident involving a player. According to a termination letter, Anderson contacted the victim and a witness after the player’s arrest, violating university policy. Anderson claimed the investigation leading to his dismissal was a “sham.” The university also fired two other staff members for similar violations.
Anderson, who had a successful tenure at Utah State, with a Mountain West title in three seasons, was terminated for cause, prompting an interim coach to be named for the upcoming season. Anderson’s attorney argued that the school’s actions were part of a trend where universities manufacture reasons to fire coaches without paying buyouts. Anderson demanded his full buyout, which stood at $4.5 million, and a public apology from the university.
The incident occurred in April 2023, with an investigation initiated in August of the same year. The university found that Anderson failed to report the incident, conducted his own investigation, and mishandled the situation. The university emphasized a commitment to building a successful athletic program grounded in integrity. Utah State’s upcoming season will be led by an interim coach, with the team set to open against Robert Morris on August 31.
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