Cape Girardeau, MO -- Southeast Missouri State announced Friday that head football coach Tim Billings resigned from his post to pursue other career opportunities.

Billings informed his players Friday morning before they departed for the season finale against Tennessee Tech this weekend. The resignation is effective January 31, 2006.

"I am extremely appreciative of the coaching opportunity Southeast gave me," said Billings, who took the job in December 1999. "I gave it my best effort for six years. But, I feel like it's time for a change in leadership with someone new who can infuse energy in the football program and work with this great group of young men."

Billings leaves the I-AA football team with a 25-42 record. In 2002 Southeast Missouri State recorded an 8-4 record and Billings was named the Ohio Valley Conference Coach of the Year.

"We are grateful to coach Billings for his service to the university and the athletics program over the past six years," said athletics director Don Kaverman. "We respect his decision to pursue other career opportunities and wish him and his family well in their future endeavors."

The Redhawks are just 2-8 this season with a mark of 2-5 in the OVC.