Gardner-Webb University has dismissed its head football coach, Kris McCullough, after only one game with the program. The university announced Wednesday that McCullough's contract was terminated effective immediately, days after he was suspended pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation.
McCullough, who joined the program in late December 2025, was suspended on Monday. The university has not provided further details regarding the investigation or the specific allegations.
The Runnin' Bulldogs' only game under McCullough's leadership was a 35-17 loss to Austin Peay on August 27. Pete Bennett has been appointed interim head coach for the remainder of the season.
Prior to his brief tenure at Gardner-Webb, McCullough, a married father of two, spent three years as the head coach of Division II Texas-Permian Basin. He was reportedly the youngest head coach in football when hired by the university in December 2022. During his time there, he led the team to two NCAA Division II playoff appearances in 2023 and 2025, and a Heritage Bowl berth in 2024. His 2023 season included a Lone Star Conference title, and his final season saw a program-record 11 wins, a Division II quarterfinals berth, and a No. 3 end-of-season ranking. He also achieved a milestone by winning 30 games before the age of 30, a feat accomplished by few college football coaches.
Gardner-Webb vice president and athletics director Brendan Fahey had expressed enthusiasm about McCullough's hiring in a press release last year, citing his "proven track record" and ability to build a "culture of excellence both on and off the field." Fahey noted McCullough's success in recruiting, player development, and winning championships as key reasons for his appointment.
McCullough is married to Hannah, and they have two children. The Daily Mail has contacted McCullough for comment.