CMU, ex-Florida coach Jim McElwain to retire after season

Field Level Media|published: Wed 20th November, 16:53 2024

Sep 14, 2024; Champaign, Illinois, USA; Central Michigan Chippewas head coach Jim McElwain during the second half against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Johnson-Imagn Images

Central Michigan and former Florida head coach Jim McElwain confirmed this is his final season on the sidelines.

The Chippewas (4-7, 2-5 MAC) have one game remaining, Nov. 30 at Northern Illinois. McElwain will stay on in the role until a new head coach is hired.

"My wife Karen and I have cherished every moment of our football journey," McElwain said in a statement. "We want to express our deepest gratitude to the all the players who have welcomed us into their lives, and the incredible coaches and support staff at every stop along the way -- it has been a true privilege to work alongside all of them."

ESPN reported McElwain made the decision without influence from the school administration.

CBS reported earlier this month that the NCAA is investigating why infamous Michigan sign-stealer Connor Stalions was allegedly on CMU's sideline for the 2023 season opener against Michigan State.

According to Dennis Dodd of CBS, "The NCAA is seeking to determine if McElwain had a role in allowing Stalions on the sideline of the Chippewas' season opener against Michigan State."

McElwain will eventually move into a new position as Special Assistant to the Athletic Director.

McElwain is 33-35 in six seasons at CMU, leading the Chippewas to a bowl win in 2021.

Overall, he is 77-63 across 12 seasons at Colorado State (2012-14), Florida (2015-17) and CMU. He is 3-2 lifetime in bowl games.

--Field Level Media

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