Indiana fires Allen with $15.5M settlement

Indiana dismissed head coach Tom Allen after seven seasons in charge, the school announced Sunday.

The Hoosiers and Allen agreed on a $15.5 million settlement that will be paid in two equal installments.

Allen, who had four years remaining on his contract, had a buyout of over $20 million, a source told Zach Osterman of the Indianapolis Star. Indiana gave the coach a new deal in March 2021.

"After continued evaluation of our entire football program, I have determined that we have lost momentum and that a change in leadership is necessary at this time," said vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics Scott Dolson.

"I want to thank Tom for all of the contributions he has made to IU in his seven years leading our program. His passion, character, and class made a positive impact on our student-athletes. We wish him well in his future endeavors."

The 53-year-old leaves with a 33-49 overall record and an 18-43 mark within the Big Ten. Allen's time in charge peaked during a two-year stint from 2019-20 when Indiana went a combined 14-7 and made two bowl appearances.

Aside from those two seasons, the Hoosiers have underperformed with Allen. A 3-9 finish this year was the third consecutive losing season and the fifth of his tenure.

Indiana promoted Allen from his defensive coordinator position without a coaching search after Kevin Wilson left ahead of the final game of the 2016 season.