Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley said public money shouldn't be used to buy out University of Maryland football coach Ralph Friedgen's contract, if University of Maryland officials decide to make a change in team leadership.
Speaking to reporters, O'Malley declined to elaborate on what he meant by "public funds," saying he doesn't want to weigh in on a "hypothetical" situation, the Baltimore Sun reported.
The university could pay for a buyout with a loan from the school's endowment or with private funds.
Friedgen earns $2 million annually and has two years remaining on his contract.
Maryland senior associate athletic director Brian Ullmann said "no request has been made to use University of Maryland funds for a buyout."
The football team has struggled this year. The Terrapins have only won two games and have lost nine.
