Fulmer out after 17 seasons

Associated Press

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — An emotional Phillip Fulmer, with his wife at his side and tearful, angry players surrounding him, announced Monday that he had accepted Tennessee’s decision that this will be his last season as the Volunteers coach.

Fulmer, 58, is being forced out after 17 years as Tennessee’s coach, a run that included a national championship. He has a 150-51 record with the Vols, including the 1998 NCAA title — the school’s first since 1951.

“This is not an easy day for me or my family. It is not a day that I sought or accepted easily,” said Fulmer, his voice cracking as he fought back tears.

“Our Tennessee family is united in its goals, but divided in the right path to get there. I love Tennessee too much to let her stay divided. That is why I accept the university’s decision that this will be my last season as Tennessee’s football coach.”

The Vols fell on hard times this season and were just 3-6, including 1-5 in the SEC after a 27-6 loss at South Carolina on Saturday.

Fulmer signed a new seven-year contract in the summer which was worth $2.4 million this season. He will receive $6 million as a buyout of the contract, payable over a 48-month period.

Toledo

Three weeks after beating Michigan, Toledo coach Tom Amstutz said Monday that will step down at the end of the season.

The Rockets have won just two games this year and are on their way to a third straight losing season. One of those two victories — a 13-10 win at Michigan on Oct. 11 — was the highlight of another dismal season for Toledo.

Athletic Director Mike O’Brien wouldn’t say on Monday why Amstutz resigned, but he did acknowledge that the coach was not offered an extension on his contract, which expires next year.

Amstutz has won two Mid-American Conference titles in eight seasons and took the Rockets to four bowl games in his first five years. During his tenure, they’ve also beaten five Top 25 teams along with BCS-conference opponents Pittsburgh, Minnesota and Kansas.