CFB world anxious over latest Blake Anderson news amid uncertainties around Utah State's HC job: "This is going to be a very bad story"
The Utah State Aggies made some news today as ESPN's Pete Thamel reported they are placing football head coach Blake Anderson on administrative leave, and he is not expected to return to the program. This comes after he's spent four years with the program.
This news took the college football world by surprise, as seen by some of the responses on social media.
"Utah State's roster is about to get picked apart like a bunch of pigeons eating a cheeseburger in Central Park. This is going to be brutal for Aggie fans," one Twitter user commented
"So the administration waited until after the baby was born, so as to not cause undue stress?" another commenter replied.
Other fans were as confused as Utah State fans about the announcement.
"As an Arkansas St fan, you should have listened to us. Now he's left 2 programs a complete dumpster fire. Dont say you werent warned about what the outcome was going to be. Guy is toxic," one person posted.
"You don't get fired this hastily unless you assaulted somebody or you were being inappropriate with coeds," someone else commented.
Blake Anderson possibly coached his final snap at Utah State and will finish with a 23-17 record with the Aggies. It will be interesting to see if he coaches again in the future.
Why did the Utah State Aggies place Blake Anderson on administrative leave?
The Utah State Aggies placed Blake Anderson on administrative leave as a result of an external investigation of alleged non-compliance with Title IX policies. The report disclosed sexual misconduct and domestic violence in spring 2023. The statement also alleged that Anderson violated rules that prohibited employees from investigating sexual misconduct personally.
Deputy athletic director Jerry Bovee and director of player development Austin Albrecht were also fired as a result of this situation.
Utah State president Elizabeth Cantwell and athletic director Diana Sabau posted the following response in a joint statement.
"As leaders, we are responsible for ensuring allegations of USU policy violations are investigated. Today's actions are the result of a thorough external investigation, and we believe the evidence demands immediate action.
"While recognizing the impact of these decisions on our student athletes and football program, we will continue to take the steps necessary to deliver a respectful, transparent and winning culture at Utah State University." h/t ESPN
Blake Anderson has 14 days to respond to the violations.