The University of Houston released a statement Saturday afternoon, following the departure of coach Tom Herman to the University of Texas.

In addition to thanking Herman for his contributions, the release announced that Houston defensive coordinator Todd Orlando will take over as interim coach for Houston's impending bowl game.

Houston also took to Twitter:

Thanks @CoachTomHerman for your leadership, spirit & contributions to our championship caliber program. You'll always be a #ForeverCoog. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/rUzrdVGGVd — University of Houston (@UHouston) November 26, 2016

.@CoachTomHerman just finished meeting with @UHCougarFB team players, coaches & staff. News doesn't deter team's drive to succeed. 2/3 pic.twitter.com/2SdJVR4V8F — University of Houston (@UHouston) November 26, 2016

.@UHCougarFB is built on decades of winning tradition and an unwavering commitment to excellence. This is just the beginning. #GoCoogs 3/3 🐾 pic.twitter.com/JWGgPnEnfy — University of Houston (@UHouston) November 26, 2016

The full release form Houston is below:

University of Houston Vice President for Athletics Hunter Yurachek

"In his short time in Houston, Tom Herman elevated the Houston Football program to new heights, and we are grateful for his contributions to our program. The entire University of Houston community wishes he and his family continued success in this new chapter in their lives.

"We will immediately turn our focus to identifying the next leader of our program. We are confident we will find the right individual who will support the young men who are and have committed to this program and who will also support our mission of building Champions for Life, both on and off the field.

"With a Tier One University, fertile recruiting ground, upgraded facilities including a new indoor practice facility slated to be completed next fall and a roster full of driven and talented student-athletes, the next leader of the Houston Football program will have an outstanding opportunity to compete for championships, maintain our program's national prominence and continue the H-TownTakeover.

"We are partnering with Collegiate Sports Associates on our national search and all inquiries from interested candidates should be directed to Todd Turner at Collegiate Sports Associates."

Interim Head Coach Announcement

Houston defensive coordinator Todd Orlando will serve as Houston's interim head coach with Houston's bowl announcement expected on Dec. 4. Orlando, a Broyles Award nominee, has over 21 years of coaching experience including 12 as a defensive coordinator.

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