Rutgers football made sweeping changes to its coaching staff on Thursday. Head coach Greg Schiano dismissed three defensive coaches following a disastrous 2025 season . The move signals a major rebuild for a defense that struggled throughout the year.

ESPN's Pete Thamel broke the news Thursday that Rutgers dismissed three defensive staff members . Defensive coordinator Robb Smith, co-DC Zach Sparber, and defensive line coach Colin Ferrell were all informed they will not return to the program. The decision ends Smith's third stint with Rutgers under Schiano.

The firings come after one of the worst defensive seasons in program history. The Scarlet Knights allowed an average of 7.6 yards per play, marking their worst performance since 2000. The team also surrendered 15 plays of 50 or m

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