The Minnesota Vikings announced that Norv Turner has resigned as the team’s offensive coordinator, effective immediately. Pat Shurmur, currently coaching tight ends, will take over Turner’s OC duties.
After a promising 5-0 start, Minnesota has faltered hard, and dreams of a strong season are starting to fade. The Vikings currently rank 31st in yards per game, 31st in yards per play, and 24th in points per game. Granted, the team is without starting QB Teddy Bridgewater and all-universe running back Adrian Peterson, but even so: when you’re struggling to stay ahead of even the San Francisco 49ers, you’re in trouble.
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“I have tremendous respect for [Vikings head coach] Mike Zimmer, our coaching staff, and our players, and at this time I think it is in the best interest of the team that I step down,” Turner said in a statement. “I thank the Wilf family for my time here in Minnesota and want to see our players and coaches achieve success.”
The announcement seemed to catch the Vikings by surprise. Zimmer said he had no idea it was coming.
"I was very, very surprised." – Coach Zimmer on when Norv Turner informed him of his resignation
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 2, 2016
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Zimmer said Turner had personal reasons for resigning. Zimmer did not indicate that Turner was dealing with a health issue.
Turner compiled a 114-122-1 record as a head coach over the course of 15 seasons from 1994 to 2012. His resume included stints with Washington, Oakland and San Diego. He amassed only three double-digit win seasons and four trips to the playoffs in his career.
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Jay Busbee is a writer for Yahoo Sports and the author of EARNHARDT NATION, on sale now at Amazon or wherever books are sold. Contact him at jay.busbee@yahoo.com or find him on Twitter or on Facebook.
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