The last head-coaching vacancy at the FBS level has officially been filled.
Earlier this week, reports surfaced that Sean Lewis was set to be named as the next head coach at Kent State. Thursday afternoon, the football program confirmed the hiring of the Syracuse offensive coordinator.
Lewis replaces Paul Haynes, who was fired last month after five years on the job.
“We are thrilled to bring Sean to Kent State,” athletic director Joel Nielsen said in a statement. “Sean brings an innovative style of football to Kent State with an offensive system that is proven in the MAC. We are confident Sean can build broad support and engagement in our program along with competitive success.”
At age 31, Lewis becomes the youngest head coach in the FBS. Oklahoma’s Lincoln Riley (34) had previously held that honor.
Lewis, who played his college football under Barry Alvarez at Wisconsin, spent the past six seasons working with Dino Babers -- Syracuse (2016-17), Bowling Green (2014-15) and Eastern Illinois University (2012-13). He began his coaching career at this level in 2011 (2011!!!) as a graduate assistant at Akron; his first job at any level came at an Illinois high school in 2007.