Southern Miss coach Fedora receives contract extension

HATTIESBURG, Miss. -- Southern Miss has given first-year football coach Larry Fedora a contract extension following a strong finish.

The Golden Eagles (7-6) ended the season with five straight wins and knocked off Sun Belt champion Troy 30-27 in overtime in the New Orleans Bowl, extending their streak to 15 straight winning seasons.

The extension pushes his contract to four years through 2012, the most allowed under state law. It must still be approved by the College Board. Financial terms have not been completed.

The school set records for ticket sales under Fedora, who replaced Jeff Bower last year. Fedora was brought in to jazz up Southern Miss' playing style and didn't disappoint as the Golden Eagles finished 20th in total offense.