Eli Drinkwitz comments on decision to fire DL coach Jethro Franklin

Following the 62-24 loss at the hands of the Tennessee Volunteers, Missouri realized it needed to make some changes on defense.

The Tigers defense let up 683 total yards of offense, and 458 of those yards were on the ground.

Eli Drinkwitz decided it was time to part ways with defensive line coach Jethro Franklin after that performance.

Drinkwitz spoke to media on Tuesday on what led to the decision:

Drinkwitz: “It was clear to me there was a disconnect at the line of scrimmage (on defense) and a change was needed. … It was my decision and my decision alone.”

— Dave Matter (@Dave_Matter) October 5, 2021

Drinkwitz also stated how the loss was not something that he takes lightly, but isn’t ready to give up just yet moving forward:

Eli Drinkwitz meeting with media now. “Saturday was not what we expected and was a step back for us. I am disappointed with how Saturday was played but I’m not discouraged. … It’s not a linear growth process.”

— Dave Matter (@Dave_Matter) October 5, 2021

Missouri will look to regain its footing against North Texas at home on Saturday. The Tigers face the Mean Green at 4 p.m. ET on SEC Network.