Michigan defensive coordinator Shafer resigns

Dec 16, 2008 - 11:16 PM ANN ARBOR, Michigan (Ticker) -- Michigan defensive coordinator Scott Shafer resigned Tuesday.

The announcement of Shafer's departure was made by coach Rich Rodriguez, who endured a disastrous 3-9 campaign in his first season in Ann Arbor as the Wolverines failed to qualify for a bowl for the first time since 1974.

"Scott and I agreed that moving in a different direction was in the best interest of the program," Rodriguez said. "I appreciate Scott's hard work on behalf of Michigan football the past year. He is a good football coach, a good person and true professional."

Rodriguez will continue to evaluate his staff before naming Shafer's replacement.

Under Shafer, the Wolverines ranked 68th in the Football Bowl Subdivision in total defense, allowing 366.9 yards per game. The Wolverines did surrender at least 40 points three times, including getting shredded in a 42-7 season-ending loss to hated rival Ohio State.

Many of the Wolverines' problems this past season centered around a Rodriguez's horrific spread offense, which ranked 109th in total offense.