Oklahoma formally announced Monday morning Mike Stoops has been "dismissed" as the program's defensive coordinator. The move comes less than 48 hours after the No. 11 Sooners were upset 48-45 by No. 9 Texas in the Red River Showdown.
On Monday afternoon, Stoops released a statement.
"My family and I continue to hold the University of Oklahoma football players, coaching staff, administrative staff, and the entire Sooner Nation in the highest regard. We wish nothing but continued success for the program," Stoops wrote. "I want to especially thank all of my players (past and present) for their tireless efforts to keep Oklahoma on top.
"I have been very fortunate to have contributed to the many successes of conference and National Championships , while at Oklahoma. My family and I, will be forever grateful for these opportunities and memories. We believe this is part of God's plan and look forward to new beginnings."
Stoops's final sentence implies he plans to continue coaching moving forward. He earned $920,000 in 2017, making him the second highest-paid assistant in the Big 12 and 20th highest in college football.
Stoops coordinated Oklahoma's defenses for a dozen seasons spread across two tenures. The Sooners won five Big 12 championships and one national championship with four total BCS/CFP appearances during that span.
Lincoln Riley announced Monday assistant head coach/defensive tackles coach Ruffin McNeill will take over as defensive coordinator and defensive analyst Bob Diaco will slide up to coach the outside linebackers.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.