YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - After five seasons and mixed results as head football coach at Youngstown State University, Bo Pelini is headed for a new job with the reigning national champions. 

Bo Pelini has accepted a position as the defensive coordinator at Louisiana State University, a position Pelini held once before in his career, from 2005 to 2007 under coach Les Miles. 

Pelini's departure follows five seasons at YSU that were marked by ups and downs, with an overall record of 33-28, which brought the team to the national championship in 2016 for the first time since 1999. The Penguins lost that game 28-14 to James Madison. 

That season was followed by a period of frustration, however, with records only one more winning season under his tenure. The team's record in 2018 was 4-7 before coming back to break even in 2019 at 6-6. 

Pelini's tenure at YSU was not without controversy, most notably after helping to recruit convicted Steubenville rapist Ma'lik Richmond, setting off social media outcry that culminated in Richmond going to court to secure the right to play in 2017. 

Before coming to YSU, Pelini was the head coach at Nebraska from 2008 to 2014, where he was fired amid a public feud with the athletic director. 

Sports Illustrated is reporting Pelini's deal with LSU is worth approximately $2 million per year. 

Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Ron Strollo says a national search for a new coach will begin immediately. 

Pelini released the following statement: 

"The past five years have been terrific. I can't thank President Jim Tressel and Ron Strollo enough for the opportunity here and support along the way. For all of the people, honestly too many to name, who were part of my YSU experience, I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you. The experience for me professionally to coach my hometown university and to appear in a championship game, is something I will always treasure. For Mary Pat and I, Youngstown will always hold an element of home for us with our children graduating from Cardinal Mooney High School and so many of our family members residing here. My YSU days will always be special for the entire Pelini family. And trust me, I will be checking in every week in the fall to follow the Penguins as they continue to build on our successes and I know they have great days ahead. The opportunity to return to LSU is truly unique. Culturally, with my prior experience at LSU, I know it is a great fit for me. The chance to work with Coach (Ed) Orgeron, the ability to take charge of the Tigers defense. All of that in a place that both my family and I immensely enjoyed when we were there before is very exciting for us.  We are very honored and looking forward to this next chapter."

Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Ron Strollo released the following statement:

"We'd like to thank Coach Pelini for the passion that he brought on the field and for returning home to lead our program the past five seasons. We wish Bo and his family the best of luck in their future. The Youngstown State football program is very special to this community, and we will work tirelessly to find someone to build on what Coach Pelini established here."