Gardner-Webb fires football coach Kris McCullough amid an ongoing investigation after just one game.

Gardner-Webb fired football coach Kris McCullough on Wednesday, just two days after announcing an investigation into his conduct. AP reports McCullough had coached only one game for the team — a 35-17 season-opening loss to Austin Peay. The specific reasons for the investigation and firing remain undisclosed.
McCullough's tenure at Gardner-Webb lasted just one game before the school suspended him. The Runnin' Bulldogs lost their season opener to Austin Peay 35-17, according to Newsday. The investigation was announced Monday, and the firing came Wednesday. The timeline suggests something triggered the school's review between the game and the public announcement.
Pete Bennett, who joined Gardner-Webb's staff in 2024, was named interim head coach after McCullough's firing. Hastings Tribune confirms Bennett took over the role immediately. The move gives the program continuity as it prepares for upcoming games. Bennett now inherits a team that lost its season opener by 18 points.
Gardner-Webb has not publicly disclosed what triggered the investigation into McCullough's conduct. The school announced the suspension and investigation Monday but kept specifics private. Houston Chronicle reports the firing came just 48 hours later. Universities typically withhold details during ongoing investigations, citing personnel and legal concerns.
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