Wisconsin fired football coach Paul Chryst on Sunday after the team's 2-3 start.
Athletic director Chris McIntosh said in a news conference Sunday night that he met with Chryst in the morning and had an extensive discussion with him, leading to the decision to make a change.
"It's a big decision and it's got implications that are not lost on me, but really, really thankful to have been able to work side by side with Coach Chryst through some incredibly exhilarating, positive moments, and some tough ones like today," McIntosh said.
Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard will serve as interim coach.