NEWS: New Mexico Parting Ways With Head Coach Danny Gonzales

Late Saturday evening, ESPN college football reporter Pete Thamel posted to X that the University of New Mexico had "separated" from head football coach Danny

© Michael Madrid-USA TODAY Sports

Late Saturday evening, ESPN college football reporter Pete Thamel posted to X that the University of New Mexico had "separated" from head football coach Danny Gonzales.

Gonzales' Lobos lost to Utah State 44-41 in OT on Saturday, ending UNM's season with a 4-8 overall record and a 2-6 record in conference play. Gonzales was 11-32 at the helm.

Sources: New Mexico has separated from head coach Danny Gonzales after four seasons as head coach.

— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) November 26, 2023

RELATED: The Last Play of Utah State-New Mexico Was A Roller Coaster of Emotion

Athletic Director Eddie Nunez confirmed the report in a news release shortly thereafter. 

“After careful consideration, I have reached the conclusion that our football program needs new leadership,” said Nuñez. “I want to thank Danny for his service to the University of New Mexico. Danny helped bring stability to our football program during a difficult time and played a big role in fostering a positive culture throughout our Department of Athletics. He truly cares about the University of New Mexico and all of our programs, and we are grateful for the lasting impact he has had on the student-athletes on our campus. Coach Gonzales will always be a Lobo for Life.”

Gonzales is a 1998 graduate of New Mexico, where he played punter and safety. New Mexico was Gonzales' first head coaching job at the college level. Prior to UNM, he served as the defensive coordinator at Arizona State for two seasons.

“While I’m disappointed, I will always appreciate and be grateful for the opportunity to return to The University of New Mexico and lead the football program as head coach,” said Gonzales. “I’m proud of the program we built and will always cheer on my alma mater in the future.”

A press conference with Nuñez is reportedly is scheduled for Sunday at 1 PM MT.