Gardner‑Webb University announced the immediate suspension of head football coach Kris McCullough following undisclosed off‑field allegations, a move first reported by FootballScoop and confirmed by the school's athletic department.
McCullough's Coaching Trajectory
The Bulldogs had just opened the season under McCullough's direction, a tenure marked by rapid progress and national playoff appearances.
McCullough arrived in December after three seasons as head coach at Texas‑Permian Basin, where he guided the team to two NCAA playoff berths and an 11‑win campaign in 2025.
Before that, he led East Central to a 9‑3 record and a Heritage Bowl victory in 2022, showcasing his ability to turn programs around quickly.
Pete Bennett, the special teams coordinator and tight ends coach who has been on staff since 2024, will serve as interim head coach during the suspension.
The Bulldogs are slated to open the season on September 5 at Wofford before hosting North Carolina Central at home on September 19.
University officials have not released details about the allegations, leaving the campus community and fans awaiting further clarification as the team moves forward under interim leadership.