Press Release: Kent State Football Coach Kenni Burns Suspended Amid Speculation
Kent State University has placed head football coach Kenni Burns on paid administrative leave, sparking conversations about the program’s challenges and the coach’s history. Burns, who previously served as the running backs coach for the Minnesota Golden Gophers under PJ Fleck from 2016 to 2023, leaves behind a two-season record of just 1-21 at Kent State.
While university officials have not disclosed the reasons for Burns’s suspension, speculation abounds. Concerns have emerged about a legal dispute involving Hometown Bank of Ohio related to over $24,000 in unsettled credit card debt. Reports indicate that Burns applied for a credit card but failed to make necessary payments, leading to overdue status as of August 2024.
Additionally, social media has ignited rumors of potential gambling infractions, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his administrative leave. Such claims remain unverified but have fueled discussions on online forums and sports communities.
Burns’s tenure at Minnesota was marked by significant association with Fleck’s coaching staff and the hope of rebuilding following a series of scandals within the Gophers’ athletic department. He tapped into talent like former Gophers star Mohamed Ibrahim at Kent State, yet the team’s performance has fallen short.
Previously, Burns faced various minor legal issues while coaching at Minnesota, primarily related to traffic violations and expired vehicle registrations, which have raised questions about his future in coaching.
As Kent State’s executive deputy athletics director Greg Glaus temporarily oversees the program, offensive coordinator Mark Carney will handle on-field responsibilities. The university has announced it cannot provide further comments on this personnel matter at this time.
This situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable landscape of college football as institutions like Kent State navigate the complexities of management and accountability in athletics.
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