Al Groh officially relieved of Georgia Tech coaching duties

Georgia Tech has fired defensive coordinator Al Groh, in his third season with the Yellow Jackets, according to the school's official Twitter account:

#GaTech defensive coordinator Al Groh has been relieved of his duties. More details to come.

— Georgia Tech Sports (@GTAthletics) October 8, 2012

The firing comes after the Jackets' season has begun a tailspin. After a 2-1 start, Tech has lost their last three games in a row, including an embarrassing 49-28 home loss to Middle Tennessee State two weeks ago.

In the three games, Tech gave up 42, 49 and 47 points, and Groh's defense is now 94th in the nation and allowing over 400 yards in total offense a game (431 in six games).

Groh released an official statement through Georgia Tech:

"The Institute has decided to go in a different direction, which I respect. I appreciate all the help and input from (assistant defensive coaches) Charles Kelly, Joe Speed and Andy McCollum, and the effort of all the players, I aimed to give the best that I had every day. It’s been an honor to be a part of the legacy of Georgia Tech football. I feel positive that this is a good time in life to move on to a new situation."

Georgia Tech has a bye this week before returning to face Boston College October 20.