LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - The University of Kentucky fired head football coach Mark Stoops following back-to-back losses to Vanderbilt and Louisville to end the season.

[Read the statements from President Eli Capilouto and Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart below]

Discussions between UK officials and affected parties began immediately after the Louisville game and continued throughout the day. The final group needed to approve the buyout signed off at 6 p.m.

Stoops, the all-time winningest coach in UK history, will receive $37 million as a result of the termination. His original contract required the university to pay the full amount within 60 days, but sources said Stoops is amenable to stretching the buyout over several years.

Season outlook changed dramatically

The season looked bleak

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