BOCA RATON, Fla. – In a significant shakeup just three games shy of the season’s conclusion, Florida Atlantic University has dismissed defensive coordinator Roc Bellantoni and associate head coach Ed Warinner. This decision comes as the team struggles with a disappointing record this year.

Both coaches were on contracts that were set to expire at the end of the current season. Bellantoni had previously served as the linebackers coach after joining FAU from 2014 to 2016. Meanwhile, Warinner held dual roles as the run game coordinator and offensive line coach during his tenure.

FAU head coach Tom Herman expressed his gratitude towards Bellantoni, stating, “I have the utmost respect for Roc, and I want to thank him for his multiple stints at Florida Atlantic.” He emphasized that a change was necessary to drive the program forward and establish a new defensive identity.

As for Warinner, Herman noted that he had shown an interest in exploring other opportunities once the season concluded. “We felt mutually it was best to go ahead and start that process now,” Herman explained.

Currently, the Owls hold a 2-7 record overall, with an unfortunate performance of 0-5 in the American Athletic Conference. The team has upcoming games against Temple, Charlotte, and Tulsa, following a heavy loss to East Carolina, where they fell 49-14 last Thursday night.