UMD Defensive Coordinator Fired After 5 Straight Losses

COLLEGE PARK, MD — Leaders fired defensive coordinator Ted Monachino after the University of Maryland endured a 37-30 homecoming loss to Rutgers Saturday, dropping their record for the season to 2-5 and their big 10 record to 0-4.

It was the team's fifth straight loss.

The University of Maryland Athletics Department made the announcement Sunday around 3 p.m. Monachino was in his second season as Maryland's defensive coordinator.

According to head football coach Michael Locksley, Monachino was relieved of his duties as both defensive coordinator and outside linebackers coach.

"I appreciate Ted's hard work and dedication to our program during his time in College Park," Locksley said in a statement released by the university. "As I evaluate our program, I believe this change is necessary. We wish Ted all the best moving forward."

Locksey's replacements are:

• Aazaar Abdul-Rahim: Named defensive coordinator for the remainder of the season. He previously served as Maryland's cornerbacks coach.
• Zac Spavital: Named co-defensive coordinator. He had been coaching inside linebackers.

The Terrapins entered Saturday's homecoming game against Rutgers hoping to end their losing streak. Maryland led 23-13 at halftime before Rutgers scored 24 consecutive points. The Scarlet Knights eventually won 37-30.

During the five-game losing streak, Maryland allowed an average of 43.8 points per game. The team has also lost 12 consecutive Big Ten games dating to last season.

Fans have been calling for the firing of head coach Locksley. However, reports suggest that his job is safe for now.