Jay Hopson Resigns from Southern Miss

It did not take long for the college football carousel to begin in 2020 as Southern Miss head coach Jay Hopson resigned today after just one game according to Yahoo's Pete Thamel. The Golden Eagles lost its opening game against South Alabama this past Thursday 32-21.

Hopson concludes his Southern Miss tenure with a record of 28-23 and three bowl appearances in four years. His best season at the helm was 2017 when he finished 8-5 but while losing the Independence Bowl.

Southern Miss Athletic Director Jeremy McClain released a statement on the decision to move on from Hopson.

"Coach Hopson came to me after last Thursday's game to discuss what was on his heart and after much discussion over the weekend, he and I agreed that new leadership for our football program is needed," said McClain. "Coach Hopson has been a part of our program for 10 years. I appreciate his commitment to Southern Miss and wish Jay and his family nothing but the best."

Hopson made his own comments on leaving the Southern Miss program.

"After heartfelt discussion with Jeremy, we have come to a mutual agreement for me to step down as head coach. I am in total agreement with this change in leadership and truly believe it is in the best interest of the players, coaches and this entire program," said Hopson. "I cannot thank Dr. Bennett and our administration enough for the opportunity that they gave me. I wish Southern Miss nothing but the best and am thankful for all that they have done for me and my family."

Hopson turns the program over to Southern Miss co-offensive coordinator, Scotty Walden, who will now assume the role of interim head coach. Walden has been with the program for four years and brings prior head coaching experience to the position as he led Division III's East Texas Baptist University.