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After allowing 646 yards in a 55-31 loss to Illinois, the Gophers have relieved defensive coordinator Robb Smith of his duties.
Defensive line coach Joe Rossi will serve as the interim defensive coordinator. He coordinated the Rutgers defense for two seasons from 2014-15.
"These decisions are always difficult, especially when they involve a close friend and colleague," head coach P.J. Fleck said in a statement. "I want to thank Robb, Amy and their family for all the time and energy they spent helping our program grow. Robb is an elite man and will always be a dear friend of mine."
The Gophers’ defense has allowed 43 points per game in six Big Ten matchups this season and have been unable to prevent explosive plays. They have surrendered 31 touchdowns and the average length of those scores is 35 yards. In addition, opposing teams are averaging 492 total yards per game over the same span.
Under the direction of defensive coordinator Robb Smith, opponents scored 509 total points in 15 total Big Ten games (33.9 points per game). In terms of total yardage, Big Ten opponents averaged 426.5 yards per game against Smith’s defenses.
Minnesota will now have the opportunity to evaluate Joe Rossi over the final three games to see if he is a viable candidate for next season.
Defensive line coach Joe Rossi will serve as the interim defensive coordinator. He coordinated the Rutgers defense for two seasons from 2014-15.
"These decisions are always difficult, especially when they involve a close friend and colleague," head coach P.J. Fleck said in a statement. "I want to thank Robb, Amy and their family for all the time and energy they spent helping our program grow. Robb is an elite man and will always be a dear friend of mine."
The Gophers’ defense has allowed 43 points per game in six Big Ten matchups this season and have been unable to prevent explosive plays. They have surrendered 31 touchdowns and the average length of those scores is 35 yards. In addition, opposing teams are averaging 492 total yards per game over the same span.
Under the direction of defensive coordinator Robb Smith, opponents scored 509 total points in 15 total Big Ten games (33.9 points per game). In terms of total yardage, Big Ten opponents averaged 426.5 yards per game against Smith’s defenses.
Minnesota will now have the opportunity to evaluate Joe Rossi over the final three games to see if he is a viable candidate for next season.
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