Kansas Jayhawks Fire Head Football Coach Charlie Weis

The Kansas Jayhawks have fired their head football coach, Charlie Weis, the university announced Saturday, citing Weis's lack of on-field progress.

Weis, in the third year of his seven-year contract, had only won one Big 12 game — and six games overall — during his tenure.

"I appreciate what coach Weis did with several facets of our football program," KU athletic director Sheahon Zenger said in a statement, according to ESPN. "But we have not made the on-the-field progress we believe we should. I believe new leadership gives our coaches and players the best chance to make a fresh start."

Defensive coordinator Clint Bowen will take over as the interim head coach while the Jayhawks consider a permanent replacement.

"I normally do not favor changing coaches mid-season," Zenger said. "But I believe we have talented coaches and players in this program, and I think this decision gives our players the best chance to begin making progress right away."

The University's chancellor, Bernadette Gray-Little, also weighed in on the news and said she respects the decision made by the athletics staff.

"As we continue to elevate the national stature of the University of Kansas, our pursuit of excellence extends beyond our research and instructional missions," Gray-Little said. "KU alumni, students, fans and supporters expect that Kansas football will match the other areas in which we excel as a university. After consulting with Dr. Zenger, I am in agreement that it is time for new leadership of our football program."

According to the Lawrence Journal-World, Weis's salary was $2.5 million per year, and he will receive the remaining $7 million that is owed to him on his contract.