New Mexico coach Bob Davie will miss his return to Notre Dame.
Davie remains sidelined as he recovers from what has been termed “a serious medical incident” and won’t join his Lobos for their Sept. 14 game against the Fighting Irish. He was head coach in South Bend from 1997 to 2001, and his teams went 35-25.
The 64-year-old Davie was taken by ambulance to the hospital last Saturday after the Lobos’ season-opening win against San Houston State. Reports circulated that he was suffering from a heart issue, but his diagnosis was not disclosed.
Saga Tuitele, the Lobos’ offensive line coach/running game coordinator will be the acting head coach until Davie returns. New Mexico has a bye this week.
New Mexico issued a statement written by Davie on Thursday.
“While I will be around next week and involved, I have decided not to make trip to South Bend for our September 14 game with Notre Dame,” Davie wrote. “After receiving advice from my doctors and wife, I wanted to make this decision now so our team and coaching staff could go into the weekend with clarity and consistency.”
While he didn’t specifically address his condition, Davie said, “My doctors have said that with no setbacks I can expect a full recovery with no limitations.”
Davie is 34-54 as Lobos’ coach since taking over prior to the 2012 season.
