 Following the departure of Don James, Kent State went through a period marked by mostly losing seasons and regular coaching changes, with no coaching tenure lasting more than three seasons until 1997.Dennis Fitzgerald, who was promoted from defensive coordinator to head coach after James' departure, was able to lead the team to an 8–4 record and second-place MAC finish in 1976 and a winning 1977 season, Fitzgerald was unable to revive the Kent State football program and left the program after the 1977 season.Ron Blackledge was promoted from offensive coordinator to head coach following Fitzgerald's departure.