EAST LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A victory over Maryland could not save Michigan State University head football coach Jonathan Smith from getting the ax.

According to media reports, MSU announced Smith’s firing on Sunday. The Spartans went 4-8 during Smith’s second year as head coach with a 1-8 record in conference play.

MORE NEWS: Body of Wexford County Pregnant Woman Identified – But Baby is Missing

Smith’s parting gift includes the roughly $33 million remaining on his seven-year, $53 million contract.

Michigan State University Vice President and Director of Athletics J Batt said in a statement that this year’s football season came up short of the school’s standards.

“While that does not fall solely on Jonathan Smith, it’s become necessary to make a coaching change in order to chart a new direction for the program,” said Batt. He also expressed appreciation for Coach Smith’s time with the team. “Throughout a difficult season, the team continued to compete. While their efforts ultimately didn’t result in enough on-field success, they do speak highly for their character.”

MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D echoed Batt’s comments, describing the decision as difficult. “[Smith] is a man of very high integrity and I wish him success in his future endeavors. We will continue to support our players and staff during this transition and future of Spartan Football.”

CBS News reports MSU has its eyes on Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald.

MSU hired Smith during a tumultuous time. The school brought Smith in after firing former Coach Mel Tucker. A Title IX investigation revealed he sexually harassed Brenda Tracy, a nonprofit founder whom he worked with to change the culture at MSU. Last month, the NCAA placed MSU football on three years of probation for violations that occurred during Tucker’s tenure. The punishment included fines and vacating several wins.