Texas Longhorns Fire Defensive Coordinator Todd Orlando
Despite picking up a win over the Texas Tech Red Raiders this past weekend, the 7-5 season was still a big disappointment in Austin. And changes are being made. According to The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman, the Texas Longhorns have let go of defensive coordinator Todd Orlando.
SOURCE: Tom Herman and #Texas are parting ways with DC Todd Orlando.
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) December 1, 2019
Orlando has been with Tom Herman since his time with the Houston Cougars. And on top of that, Orlando was made one of the highest-paid coordinators in the country, making north of $1.7 million per year after signing a big extension following the 2017 season.
But this year was a huge letdown for the Texas defense.
The Longhorns ranked eighth in the Big 12 in scoring defense, eighth in total defense, sixth in rushing defense, ninth in passing defense and eighth in pass defense efficiency.
Texas also ranked eighth in red zone defense and had trouble getting to the quarterback, ranking eighth in the Big 12 in sacks.
Yes, there were several injuries throughout the season for this unit, but considering the talent on the side of the ball and the expectations Orlando had built for the unit, this season was unacceptable.
In 2017, Texas ranked second in the Big 12 in total defense, first in pass defense efficiency and second in rushing defense.
But now, with his own recruits, the defense was regressing and it was time for Tom Herman to move on, which he reportedly did on Sunday night. And based on how the season went, don’t expect this to be the last move on the staff, especially considering most of the staff is on short-term deals.
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