John L. Smith‘s fate at Arkansas was sealed in September when the Razorbacks lost a stunner to Louisiana-Monroe. The interim coach (of sorts) did not have his 10-month contract renewed by athletic director Jeff Long, and the university instead hired Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema.
But Smith won’t be unemployed for long. Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colo., has hired JLS as the program’s new coach following a winless season in 2012.
“We are extremely fortunate to have a coach with the tremendous background and experience that John L. brings to Fort Lewis College,” said athletic director Gary Hunter.
Hunter previously hired Smith at the University of Idaho.
“Fort Lewis College is making a commitment to football. Many of our other programs have reached the pinnacle of success at the national and regional levels. We want our football alumni and fans to have the opportunity to enjoy that same success.
“Not only has Coach Smith had outstanding success on the field, but he has always stressed the importance of academics and community and campus involvement.”
Arkansas went just 4-8 under Smith in 2012 as he took over for the fired Bobby Petrino.
(Hat tip: Durango Herald)