Defensive coordinator Matt Wallerstedt was fired [see below for update: TTU terms the move a resignation] by Texas Tech Thursday after suspicion he was under the influence of "a controlled substance" at the school's football building, ESPN's Jake Trotter is reporting. Our Texas Tech site, Viva The Matadors, has rolling updates as more information comes in.
Texas Tech assistant resigns, reportedly after being ‘under influence’ on campus
ESPN is reporting Wallerstedt was under the influence of “a controlled substance” at the football building.
Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
The Red Raiders have played three games so far this season, ranking dead last in the Big 12 in scoring defense. Texas Tech gave up 36.7 points per game under Wallerstedt this year, including 35 to FCS Central Arkansas and 49 in a loss to Arkansas.
Wallerstedt’s dismissal adds to the recent upheaval at the position for the Red Raiders: he was hired prior to the 2013 season, replacing three straight one-year stints.
Here's the list: Setencich (2007), McNeill (2007-09), Willis (2010), Glasgow (2011), Kaufman (2012), Wallerstedt (2013-14), Smith (2014-).
— Aaron Dickens (@AaronDickens) September 18, 2014 Line in Matt Wallerstedt’s Texas Tech bio #oops pic.twitter.com/DxUbfYhECK
— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) September 18, 2014 ***
Update: According to a Texas Tech statement, Wallerstedt officially resigned:
Matt Wallerstedt has resigned his duties as defensive coordinator at Texas Tech due to personal reasons.
“I have submitted my resignation to Coach Kingsbury effective immediately because I want the best for the Red Raider program, and this will allow them to go in a different direction on defense,” Wallerstedt said. “I love our players and this school and have only their best interest in my heart and mind. I wish Coach Kingsbury every success this season.”
“We appreciate all Coach Wallerstedt has done at Texas Tech and we wish him the best,” Head Coach Kliff Kingsbury said.
Wallerstedt joined Kingsbury’s staff in the spring of 2013 and recently coached the third game of his second season at Texas Tech. Mike Smith, co-defensive coordinator, will lead the defense for the remainder of the year alongside Kevin Curtis, Trey Haverty and John Scott Jr. Matt Brock will move from his role of defensive quality control and coach the inside linebackers.
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