In this Nov. 29, 2015 file photo, Tampa Bay Buccaneers...

In this Nov. 29, 2015 file photo, Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Lovie Smith looks on during the first half of an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts in Indianapolis. Credit: AP / Darron Cummings

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers fired coach Lovie Smith on Wednesday night.

Smith went 6-10 this season and 8-24 over two years in charge of the team. The announcement came as a surprise to many because Smith’s job was not considered to be in danger.

A statement from Buccaneers Co-Chairman Joel Glazer said, “This decision was difficult on a variety of levels. I am disappointed that we were not more successful these past few seasons, but we are committed to doing what is necessary to give our fans the winning team they deserve. ‘’

General manager Jason Licht will oversee the search for a new coach.

Smith led the Chicago Bears to the NFC title in 2006, when they lost to Indianapolis in the Super Bowl. He was 84-66 in nine seasons with Chicago.

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