Texas A&M University-Commerce athletic director Carlton Cooper announced effective December 1st that he has relieved head football coach Scotty Conley of his duties.

"We are thankful for Scotty and his contributions to our football program, but as an organization we have decided to go in a new direction for our football program," said Cooper.

In 2008, Conley and the Lions opened up the season with a No. 18 nationally ranked and finished second in the Lone Star Conference North Division. A&M-Commerce posted a 5-5 record and a 3-2 mark in the LSC North. The Lions also made a return appearance in the inaugural Harvey Martin Classic at the Cotton Bowl, posting a 27-15 win over East Central. In 2007, A&M-Commerce shared a LSC North Division title after posting a 5-6 overall mark and 3-2 in the LSC North. The Lions also made an appearance on national television in its season opener against Pittsburg State.

“Winning constantly is something we expect to do at A&M-Commerce and it has been a challenge for our institution before the arrival of Coach Conley. I thank Coach Conley and his entire staff for their effort and attitude in attempting to improve our program. We have not met our expectations for football,” said Cooper.

A national search for a new football coach will begin immediately. Jamie Critchlow will serve as interim coach until a replacement has been named. Cooper will assemble a search committee that will assist in the process. In addition, former University of Alabama head football coach Gene Stallings has agreed to serve as an unpaid advisor throughout the search process. Both Stallings and Cooper are Paris, Texas natives. Cooper noted that he has benefited from his long-standing friendship with the former coach in his personal and professional life.

Conley posted a record of 24-27 as the Lions head coach in his five seasons. He coached two All-Americans as well as 34 first team all-Lone Star Conference selections, 13 on the second team and seven more on the honorable mention team. In addition, 29 players earned weekly recognition from the Lone Star Conference for their efforts.