University of Missouri football coach Gary Pinkel says he will resign at the end of season. The announcement is the latest twist in a dramatic week for the team.
On Friday, the 63-year-old Pinkel announced his resignation, effective at the end of this season. Doctors have been treating Pinkel for lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, since May. Pinkel says his health and not the turbulent week at MU drove his decision.
Several racist incidents at MU drew protests and a week-long hunger strike calling for University of Missouri system president Tim Wolfe’s resignation. A number of MU football players joined in supporting the protesting, vowing not to play until Wolfe stepped down.
Pinkel joined the protest Sunday and announced that he was united with the team. Wolfe resigned the next day.
Sports historian Kurt Kemper saw MU coming into tonight’s game at Arrowhead Stadium against Brigham Young University with remarkable momentum.
“I think the Missouri team is going to come out jacked off the ceiling,” says Kemper. “I don’t think BYU stands a chance.”
Pinkel has the best football coaching record in school history with a 117-71 record over 15 seasons. The Tigers have won the last two SEC East titles, but the team is out of contention for a conference title this year.
