Maryland football makes coaching change, fires DC Ted Monachino

Maryland's football team has made a coaching change after suffering its fifth loss of the season. On Sunday, October 18, head coach Mike Locksley informed the team that he has dismissed defensive coordinator and outside linebackers coach Ted Monachino. Locksley expressed gratitude for Monachino's efforts during his tenure at Maryland, stating that the change was necessary as he evaluates the program. The coach wished Monachino well in his future endeavors.

Monachino had served as the defensive coordinator and outside linebackers coach for the last two seasons, having joined the staff from North Carolina after two years at the school. Maryland's defense has been among the worst in the Big Ten, ranking last in conference scoring defense and 14th in total defense. The team has struggled recently, surrendering an average of 43.8 points per game over their five-game losing streak.

In Monachino's absence, co-defensive coordinator Aazaar Abdul-Rahim will take charge as primary defensive coordinator for the remainder of the season. Inside linebackers coach Zac Spavital will assume the role of co-defensive coordinator. Maryland now heads into its Week 8 bye with a 2-5 overall record, preparing to face Illinois on October 31 at SECU Stadium in College Park, Maryland.