INDIANAPOLIS — Some IU football fans say they've been questioning Tom Allen's coaching skills for a while. That's why when the news of his dismissal broke Sunday morning, most fans weren't surprised.
"Our defense was lacking, and our offense could barely put up points," said Dallas Fox, an IU fan.
Fans said they had high hopes when Allen joined the program.
"It was great. It was a brand new culture. We hadn't seen anything like it as a fan base. It was great. It was fun to watch. Especially that 2020 season," IU fan Danny Arbuckle said.
In a statement released Sunday afternoon, IU Vice President and Athletic Director Scott Dolson said:
“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. 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.”
Fans agreed.
"It's unfortunate. He's a nice guy. At the end of the day, it's a program. We got to win. It sucks for him and his family, but we have to move on," Arbuckle said.
Now, the IU football team is tasked to find a new coach — the third one in 13 years. Fans hope whoever is chosen will have some new ideas to fix the team.
"Try the transfer portal. Maybe see if we can try and find a new guy with some new connections that a talent pool that hasn't been picked yet," Arbuckle said.
"I hope they decide to dish out money to get a reputable named coach who can hopefully bring us to the next level," Fox said.
However, no matter how many coaches come and go, both Arbuckle and Fox said they'll remain IU fans. They said they still have faith in the team.
"That's all you got as an IU fan is hope left. I'm going to try to hope despite my faults. Will try," Arbuckle said.
"It's where we are from, and it's what we root for," Fox said.