Charlie Partridge will not return to Florida Atlantic, multiple reports stated Sunday morning. FootballScoop and others have since confirmed the news.
In arriving from Arkansas, Partridge was tasked with turning around FAU's image after inheriting a program recovering from the Carl Pelini scandal. While Partridge was highly effective in moving the Owls beyond those days, the results on the field never took off.
Florida Atlantic booked three consecutive 3-9 seasons under Partridge's watch.
This season, Partridge's Owls lost four games by six points or less, and of his 27 losses leading the program 12 came by seven points or less. Sources in Florida tell us the program is in great shape, ready to explode forward. One source added, "Charlie did everything right there, the wins just didn't materialize, yet. They are about to come. Someone will win big there."
Partridge took over the FAU program in December of 2013 and signed a 5-year deal. With two years still remaining on his contract, FAU will owe Partridge just over $1 million for the remaining time of his deal, but the buyout clause drops that figure to about $200,000 provided he finds another job.
The next FAU coach will be judged in direct competition with new Florida International coach Butch Davis, who is already on the ground and running.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.