The Indianapolis Colts announced today that they have fired defensive coordinator Larry Coyer. Linebackers coach Mike Murphy will replace Coyer for the interim. The move comes in the wake of Indianapolis' 11th loss of the season in week 12, this time to the Carolina Panthers.
The Colts defense is allowing 29.7 points per game this season, worst in the league. They famously allowed the New Orleans Saints to score 62 points in week 7 loss. Of course, defense has only been part of the problem for the Colts this season, who are without quarterback Peyton Manning.
Coyer was hired by the Colts in 2009 as their defensive coordinator. Prior to that he spent two years as the defensive line coach in Tampa Bay. He was the defensive coordinator in Denver from 2000-2006.
Murphy is a long-time Colts coach, in his 14th season as the team's linebackers coach.
Head coach Jim Caldwell explained the move in a statement reported by Fox 59 in Indianapolis.
The move was made to improve communication and production. We feel this is the most effective and realistic way to move forward and win games this season. We appreciate all of the effort and hard work Larry Coyer put forth in his three years with the Colts.
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