Middle Tennessee is off to a very shaky 1-4 start through the first half of the season, and the second half now doesn’t appear to be getting any better.
According to an official school release, offensive coordinator Willie Simmons has stepped down suddenly, citing personal reasons.
“I have resigned my position as offensive coordinator and running backs coach effective immediately for personal reasons,” Simmons said in MTSU’s release. “I feel this is in the best interest for me and the athletic department at Middle Tennessee. I need to focus on my personal matters and allow (head coach Rick Stockstill) to begin the process of moving his team forward. I love those players and want to wish them well.”
The Tennessean, however, states that Simmons stepped down Friday night after he was arrested on a charge of aggravated assault on Wednesday. According to Rutherford County Sheriff’s office, an unidentified private citizen obtained the warrant for Simmons’ arrest.
He was released from jail on Wednesday on $1,500 bond and immediately took a recruiting trip. The Tennessean states he was then ushered back to Murfreesboro after being suspended indefinitely from football-related activities.
“I support Willie’s decision and feel that his resignation is the best for all parties involved,” athletic director Chris Massaro said in MTSU’s release. “His concentration and focus needs to be on resolving his personal issues, and our efforts need to turn to the needs of our football program.”
Middle Tennessee does not play this Saturday.
