The Daily Gamecock

Issue date: 10/13/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Mary Ann Chastain The Associated Press Although Clemson University has yet to confirm the reports, many media outlets said Clemson's head coach, Tommy Bowden, has been fired.

After 10 years with Clemson, Tommy Bowden will no longer be head coach of the Clemson Tigers as of Monday.

According to multiple media outlets, although it has yet to be confirmed by Clemson University, Bowden was fired. However, The Associated Press reports that, "Clemson athletic dept official tells AP that football coach Tommy Bowden has stepped down."

There will be a news conference at 5:15 p.m. today at Clemson University regarding the situation.

Dabo Swinney, Clemson's assistant head coach and wide receivers coach, will serve as head coach as the team faces the last six games of the season with a 3-3 record.

Bowden and Terry Don Phillips, Clemson's athletic director, met twice to discuss the situation, according to a news release published by the Anderson Independent Mail.

"Terry Don Phillips approached me this morning and we agreed that this is the best solution for the direction of the program," Bowden said. "I appreciate the opportunity Clemson University gave me and the support of the administration while I was here. I also want to thank all the student-athletes and coaches who worked so hard for this program the last 10 years."

Cullen Harper, Clemson's quarterback, said it was karma and that he has confidence in Swinney, according to ESPN.com.

"I thought it needed to be done. I think anytime a head coach or someone in a leadership position starts to place blame on his coaches and players, it weakens their respect on the team. His past experiences have shown he's done that," Harper said.

"I wish Clemson University nothing but the best in the future," Bowden said in a news release.

The Daily Gamecock will keep you posted as the situation develops.

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