Georgia Tech fires four coaches midseason after 2-7 start

Key points

• Four staff members were fired: defensive coordinator Jason Semore, defensive ends/outside linebackers coach Kyle Pope, offensive line coach Allen Mogridge, and wide receivers coach Jafar Williams.
• The dismissals follow a four-game losing streak, including heavy losses to Boston College, Pitt, and Louisville, where the defense struggled significantly against the run.
• Head coach Brent Key stated the changes are necessary to position players for success in the final three games and to meet program expectations moving forward.
• Vinnie Sunseri will assume defensive play-calling duties, while DeAndre Hopkins, a former NFL All-Pro, will take over the wide receivers room.
• Assistant offensive line coach Brandon Torrey will lead the offensive line, and defensive line coach Jess Simpson will expand his role to include defensive ends and outside linebackers.

Background

Georgia Tech entered the 2026 season with significant staff turnover, including the hiring of George Godsey as offensive coordinator and Jason Semore as defensive coordinator. The team had a stronger 2025 campaign but faced early struggles in 2026, leading to midseason adjustments. Key previously described the program as needing a thorough evaluation and had been cautious about midseason changes, but the recent losses prompted immediate action.

How outlets are covering it

FootballScoop reported that the firing of nearly half the coaching staff was a significant midseason reset, highlighting the struggles of the defense and offense. The official Georgia Tech announcement framed the changes as a necessary step to put players in the best position for success in the final three games, emphasizing that the decisions were not taken lightly. Both sources agree on the specific coaches fired and the new assignments, but FootballScoop provided more detail on the background of the fired coaches and the broader context of the coaching changes.

Why it matters

The midseason firing of four coaches, including the defensive coordinator, signals a major attempt to stabilize a struggling program. The changes could impact the team's performance in the final three games, including a crucial matchup against Clemson, and may influence future hiring and strategy decisions for the 2027 season.

What to watch

Georgia Tech will face Clemson on Saturday, followed by games against Wake Forest and Georgia. The team will monitor the effectiveness of the new coaching assignments and may make further adjustments if necessary. The outcome of these games could influence the program's future direction and coaching decisions.