MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Tigers defensive coordinator Matt Barnes is no longer with the program, sources confirm to ABC24. Barnes spent the last two years leading the Tigers defense.
Memphis (9-3, 6-2) is preparing for the Autozone Liberty Bowl and will do so without Barnes. The Tigers defense was allowing 421.3 yards per game and 29 points per game.
The Tigers found themselves in several shootouts this season. The team had six games allowing 30 points or more and were 5-3 in those games. The yards per game were ranked tied for 110th in total defense and 90th in scoring defense. However, Memphis excelled in the turnover margin department. The Tigers defense forced 20 this season, good for a top 20 mark in the country.
Barnes came to Memphis from Ohio State where he was defensive coordinator. The Autozone Liberty Bowl is December 29. Memphis will play Iowa State in Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.
