The 2012 college football coaching hot seat has claimed its first victim.

After starting the season with a record of 1-7, the University of Idaho has fired football coach Robb Akey. Idaho is coming off a 70-28 blowout loss to Louisiana Tech where the Vandals defense allowed 839 yards. Offensive coordinator Jason Gesser has been promoted to interim coach.

Akey was 20-50 at Idaho since taking the job in February 2007. He had one winning season in Moscow, a 8-5 campaign in 2009 that included a 43-42 win in the Humanitarian Bowl over Bowling Green. Prior to assuming the head coaching position at Idaho, Akey was the defensive line coach and defensive coordinator at Washington State from 1999-2006.

Here is the statement from Idaho A.D. Rob Spear (emphasis added):

"The president (Duane Nellis) and I believe it is important to make this move now so we can immediately begin the process of hiring a new coach for the 2013 season," athletic director Rob Spear said. "We appreciate Coach Akey's enthusiasm and dedication to the University of Idaho, but this is the right move at this time."

Hint, hint.