Auburn University decided to fire Gus Malzahn Sunday afternoon. Athletic Director Allen Greene announced news via a release from the university saying it had made a head coaching change.

“After evaluating the state of the Auburn football program, we’ve decided that it was time to make a change in leadership. We appreciate everything that Gus did for the program over the last eight seasons. We will begin a search immediately for a coach that can help the Auburn program consistently compete at the highest level.”

Auburn will owe a whopping $21.5 million buyout to Malzahn, the 12th largest in the nation.

The offensive guru finishes his Auburn career with a 68-35 overall record, including a 39-27 conference record. He won the SEC Championship in 2013.

Firings are never easy, especially for the family of the head coach. Malzahn’s wife, Kristi, released a statement on Facebook following Auburn’s decision to fire her husband.

“Spending this first day, of a new normal, focusing on my God and His kindness and faithfulness. Our last day, as the Auburn coach, started with our son in law graduating with his masters, and now all 4 of our “kids” have degrees from AU and we are so proud and thankful. The day ended with a win and smiles on the players faces and dancing in the locker room (🤦🏼‍♀️). He is good, faithful and kind and I am grateful for my memory of that last day. War Eagle & God bless!”