Oct. 15 (Bloomberg) -- The University of Nebraska fired Athletic Director Steve Pederson following consecutive lopsided losses by the school's football team in Big 12 Conference play.

Pederson, who had held the position since January 2003 and signed a five-year contract in July, was asked to step down by Chancellor Harvey Perlman, the school said in a news release.

``We are of course disappointed about the progress in our football program,'' Perlman said. ``Steve has done many positive things for Husker athletics during his tenure, but I think only new leadership can objectively assess the state of our program and make the decisions necessary to move us forward.''

Nebraska, which has won or shared five national titles since the 1970 season, lost 45-14 to Oklahoma State two days ago -- the school's worst home defeat since a 31-0 loss to Missouri in 1958. Two weeks ago, the Huskers fell 41-6 at Missouri. Nebraska is 4-3 overall this season and 1-2 in conference play.

Perlman said he has noted a decline in morale in the athletic department since re-signing Pederson and football coach Bill Callahan in July. He hasn't named an interim athletic director and plans a national search for someone to fill the position permanently.

Callahan has led Nebraska to a 26-18 record since taking over as coach for the 2004 season. Pederson fired the team's previous coach, Frank Solich, following a 9-3 2003 regular season.

According to Callahan's contract, it would cost the school almost $3.2 million to fire him right now.

To contact the reporter on this story: Mason Levinson in New York at mlevinson@bloomberg.net.

Last Updated: October 15, 2007 16:53 EDT