Coaching exits hit Desert Ridge after walkout, Temple after loss and Marist after rout

Desert Ridge High School’s football program in Mesa, Arizona, was in turmoil after coach Miles Smith dismissed quarterback Gunner Brewer for changing a play; 12 teammates who walked out in support of Brewer were suspended for the rest of the season. Miles Smith reportedly resigned, and his father, volunteer assistant Lovie Smith, also left the program, though the district said it had not received Miles Smith’s official resignation as of Oct. 19; Lovie Smith was also involved in a heated confrontation with a booster. At Temple, coach K.C. Keeler dismissed defensive line coach Cedric Calhoun after the Owls lost to previously winless Charlotte, and Henry Baker was expected to take over defensive playcalling. In Oregon, Marist Catholic removed coach Zach Loboy after a 63–0 halftime lead over Cottage Grove; an onside-kick attempt while Marist led 56–0 drew scrutiny, and the schools agreed to end the game at halftime. Marist cited its mission and values in announcing the coaching change, and Jake Lowther was named interim coach.