Arkansas State has started the season 3-2 and won Thursday night in an epic shootout over Georgia State in which both teams combined for 15 touchdowns. Arkansas State set multiple team records in the win.

The Red Wolves fired 2 defensive coaches Friday, including defensive coordinator David Duggan. Defensive passing game coordinator Ed Pinkham also was relieved of his duties. Both coaches joined the program prior to the 2019 season.

Arkansas State head coach Blake Anderson released a statement on their dismissal.

“These kind of decisions are never easy when there are relations, lives and families impacted,” the statement read. “David Duggan is a close friend of mine, and I have a lot of respect for Ed Pinkham – they are both great coaches, and their backgrounds and histories speak to that.

“However, I am responsible for putting a staff together and trying to create the best environment to maximize our players’ abilities. This was my decision, and as I discussed with our Vice Chancellor (for Intercollegiate Athletics) Terry Mohajir, I believe a change is necessary for us to move forward, turn a corner defensively and get the results we want.

”I also want to add that I would not have made it through last year – the toughest personal time in my life without David Duggan. I would not be where I am now without him. This is the hardest part of our profession, but this is a time when I have to put personal feelings aside and do what is best for our program. I wish Dave and Ed both the best as they move forward as well.”

Co-special teams coordinator and safety coach Nick Paremski will take over the defensive coordinator duties for the remainder of the season.

The Red Wolves return to action Thursday night against Appalachian State.