By John Nestor

Champaign, IL

The University of Illinois dismissed football coach Ron Zook, according to an announcement from athletic director Mike Thomas.

The Illini started the season 6-0, but lost their last six games to fall to 6-6 on the season though the team may still qualify for a bowl game.

Zook posted a 34-51 mark in seven seasons at Illinois, leading the Illini to the 2007 Rose Bowl, a loss to USC and the Texas Bowl in 2011 in which they topped Baylor.

"I assessed the entire program and felt that it was time for a change in leadership," Thomas said in a release. "It is imperative that our program shows some consistency and competes for championships, and I think a change in coaches can help us get there sooner. I wasn't here seven years ago when Ron Zook took over as coach, but it's clear the program is in better shape than what he inherited."

Vic Koenning, the team's defensive coordinator, will take over as interim coach.

 

 

Ron Zook Dismissed as Football Coach at Illinois