Full Breakdown
Boston College Hires Ted Roof as New Defensive Coordinator
12/31/2025, 12:03:58 PM
Coaching Transition at Boston College
Boston College has officially hired Ted Roof as its new defensive coordinator, reuniting him with head coach Bill O'Brien. This decision follows a disappointing 2-10 season for the Eagles, during which the team ranked 123rd out of 136 FBS teams in scoring defense, allowing an average of nearly 33 points per game. Roof's appointment comes after the dismissal of Tim Lewis, who held the position for two seasons.
Ted Roof's Coaching Background
Ted Roof, 62, has a long and varied coaching career that spans over three decades. He began as a graduate assistant at Alabama in 1987 and has since held defensive coordinator roles at multiple institutions, including UMass, Georgia Tech, Auburn, and most recently, UCF. Roof's notable achievements include serving as the defensive coordinator for Auburn's 2010 national championship team and leading defenses that ranked highly in various statistical categories during his tenure at Penn State in 2012.
Roof's coaching history is marked by frequent transitions; he has held positions at thirteen different schools, often for short durations. Critics have raised concerns about his consistency and the implications of his frequent moves, as he has been known to stay only one year at several institutions.
Familiarity with Bill O'Brien
Roof's relationship with O'Brien dates back to their time together at Georgia Tech, where Roof served as the defensive coordinator while O'Brien was the offensive coordinator. Their collaboration continued at Penn State, where Roof was O'Brien's first defensive coordinator. This familiarity is expected to foster a cohesive coaching environment at Boston College.
Official Statements & Responses
Athletic director Blake James confirmed Roof's hiring, emphasizing the importance of improving the team's defensive performance. O'Brien's return for a third season as head coach, with a current record of 9-16, underscores the urgency for a turnaround in the program's fortunes.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Roof's extensive experience, some analysts express skepticism regarding his ability to deliver consistent results. His history of short tenures at various programs raises questions about his stability and effectiveness as a defensive coordinator. Critics point to the Eagles' need for a solid defensive strategy, given their recent struggles.
What's Next for Boston College
As Boston College prepares for the upcoming season, Roof's immediate challenge will be to revamp a defense that has struggled significantly. The Eagles will also need to address player retention, as reports indicate that running back Turbo Richard and receiver Reed Harris may enter the transfer portal. The program aims to improve its performance in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) after a lackluster previous season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Overall, his familiarity with O’Brien should create better cohesion.” — Source
- “Boston College is expected to hire veteran coach Ted Roof as its new defensive coordinator, sources tell @CBSSports,” — Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports
- “Roof is known for an aggressive, penetrating style of defense that creates tackles for loss, sacks, and turnovers.” — Source
This hiring marks a significant step for Boston College as it seeks to enhance its football program and improve upon its recent performance.
