Your defense can’t give up almost 500 total yards in a loss to Duke — in South Bend, and believe you’re going to have a job.
Here's the #NotreDame announcement of Brian VanGorder's firing: pic.twitter.com/BcVtq8NMsQ
— Brian Hamilton (@_Brian_Hamilton) September 25, 2016
Here is the statement from head coach Brian Kelly, via Irish Sports Daily:
“This is a difficult decision,” said Kelly in a statement released by Notre Dame. “I have the utmost respect for Brian as both a person and football coach, but our defense simply isn’t it where it should be and I believe this change is necessary for the best interest of our program and our student-athletes.
“It’s never easy to make a change on your staff, but I’m confident in Greg’s ability to lead our defense. As a former player at Notre Dame and an experienced defensive coordinator, he not only understands the expectations necessary to compete at the highest level, but he’ll bring a fresh perspective to our sideline, practice field and meeting rooms.”
VanGorder was in his third season as the Irish defensive coordinator — but was the sacrificial lamb after Notre Dame’s 1-3 start.
