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Following Saturday’s rivalry win, it was announced on Sunday morning that ASU offensive coordinator Rob Likens, wide receivers coach Charlie Fisher, and tight ends coach Donnie Yantis will not be retained for next season.
According to Doug Haller of The Athletic, all three members of the coaching staff also will not coach in the team’s bowl game. Running backs coach Shaun Aguano and and offensive line coach Dave Christensen will fill in as co-coordinators the next time ASU takes the field.
ASU Herm Edwards announces that offensive coordinator Rob Likens will not be retained.
— Doug Haller (@DougHaller) December 1, 2019
Receivers coach Charlie Fisher and tight ends coach Donnie Yantis also will not be brought back.
Additionally, offensive analyst Derek Hagan will grab the reigns coaching the receivers and Kevin Mawae will coach the tight ends for the time being.
Edwards had a conference call with the media on Sunday, and discussed filling the vacancies this offseason.
Herm Edwards said they don't have to necessarily move quickly to replace Likens, but adds, "I don't think we'll have a problem finding a coordinator."
— Doug Haller (@DougHaller) December 1, 2019
There had been growing pains and a bit of frustration with the offense this season, and it was addressed throughout the season with a young group of players. Edwards noted in his conference call that he was looking for more scoring in the 30’s. ASU averaged 25.17 points per game this season.
Likens was one of the remaining members of Todd Graham’s staff, and he was brought into the program in 2016.
The Sun Devils will await their bowl game fate next weekend.