Blake Anderson to Sue Utah State for Wrongful Termination

Former Utah State head coach Blake Anderson is preparing to file a lawsuit against the university for wrongful termination, as announced by his legal representatives, Bearnson & Caldwell. The lawsuit claims that Utah State administrators, including athletic director Diana Sabau, orchestrated a "public smear campaign" against Anderson prior to his dismissal on July 19. The university terminated Anderson following an internal investigation that concluded he violated Title IX policies regarding the reporting of sexual misconduct. The investigation centered on Anderson's alleged improper contact with the girlfriend and roommate of a football player accused of domestic violence, which the university described as a "fact-finding mission." Anderson has maintained his innocence, asserting that he acted appropriately and labeling the university's rationale for his firing as "misinformation." His attorneys criticized the university's public statements, emphasizing that the dispute should not have been aired publicly. In a statement, Anderson expressed his desire for the truth to emerge through legal proceedings, stating he looks forward to presenting his case in court. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Utah State reaffirmed the university's commitment to its employment decisions and its goal of fostering a respectful and transparent culture within the community. The investigation that led to Anderson's termination also resulted in the firing of deputy athletic director Jerry Bovee and director of player development Austin Albrecht. Anderson, who previously led Utah State to an 11-3 record in 2021 and a bowl appearance in 2023, was entering his fourth season with the team at the time of his dismissal.