Maryland fires defensive coordinator Ted Monachino amid Locksley job security concerns
Maryland dismissed defensive coordinator Ted Monachino on Sunday following a 37-30 loss to Rutgers that dropped the Terrapins to 2-5 on the season. The team's defense has struggled significantly, ranking in the bottom quarter of college football in total defense, pass defense, rush defense, and scoring defense, according to the report. Co-defensive coordinator Aazaar Abdul-Rahim will take over play-calling duties on an interim basis, with inside linebackers coach Zac Spatival also elevated to co-defensive coordinator. Head coach Mike Locksley's own job security remains in serious question, as he has compiled a 2-20 Big Ten record since the 2024 season and has not defeated a Power Four opponent in over a year.
Why it matters
For coaches: Monachino's mid-season dismissal signals how quickly a coordinator's position can become untenable when unit performance falls short, and Locksley's precarious status puts the entire Maryland staff on notice.
For athletes: Maryland players on the defensive side of the ball will face a scheme and leadership transition heading into a bye week and the second half of the season.
Read the full story at CBS Sports
Sources
- CBS Sports · John Talty: Maryland fires DC Ted Monachino as Mike Locksley's future as coach remains in doubt