End of the Enos era: CMU football coach resigns to take offensive coordinator job at Arkansas
Dan Enos resigned as Central Michigan University football head coach on Thursday morning, Jan. 22, 2015.
At about 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, Central Michigan University Athletic Director Dave Heeke received a phone call and some surprising news to start his morning: Head football coach Dan Enos told him he was resigning and taking a job as the offensive coordinator at the University of Arkansas.
“It certainly was not the way I thought I would start my day,” Heeke said. “I don’t know in this business, anymore, if I am ever shocked. I was aware of the opportunity that was out there. My intention was for him to be our football coach moving forward.”
Heeke said he and Enos had specific conversations about expectations for the 2015 season leading up to Thursday morning’s phone call.
“I’ve talked to Dan everyday since he has been the football coach here,” Heeke said. “We are constantly discussing the state of our football program.”
Heeke said he does not take Enos’ decision personally.
“I feel good about where our football program is,” Heeke said. “Our new football coach will feel the same way.”
Enos informed CMU football players of his resignation at about 10:30 a.m. Thursday.
Enos, who was 26-36 during his five years in Mount Pleasant, did not respond to requests for an interview following the Chippewas 49-48 loss to Western Kentucky University on Christmas Eve. Central Michigan Life called Enos on Thursday morning for comment on his resignation. He did not respond.
In a press release issued by the University of Arkansas, Enos thanked Razorback Athletics for inviting him to join the program.
“I want to thank Bret (Bielema) for this wonderful opportunity to be part of something special at the University of Arkansas,” Enos said. “The challenge of winning a championship in the SEC and developing young men at the highest level of college football is very attractive.”
During a teleconference on Thursday, Enos shared his excitement about his new job in Fayetteville.
“I had a great job (at CMU),” Enos said. “This was an opportunity too good to pass up. I’m looking forward to not having to shovel snow for awhile.”
Enos was paid about $360,000 for the 2014 season.
Heeke would not comment on the specifics of a “short list” for possible head coaching candidates moving forward.
“We know we have to move quickly,” Heeke said. “Offensive and defensive schemes are vastly overrated by the public and by the media.”
Heeke said CMU’s next football coach would receive a “competitive offer.”
Enos’ announcement comes just two weeks before college football signing day.
“We are going to have an outstanding head football coach and that’s the message that we have provided to our recrutis,” Heeke said. “They’ve committed to our program. They have committed to Central Michigan University. This program is very healthy.”
Heeke will have direct oversight of the program until a new coach is selected.
“You always need to have an idea for potential candidates,” Heeke said. “I have that idea. There are some good people out there. Short lists are for a purpose. It keeps you centered.”
Heeke thanked Enos for what he has given to CMU Athletics.
“There are many pieces of this foundation that have been built by Dan and his staff,” Heeke said. “It’s time to move forward.”
