Rams Fire Coach Jeff Fisher After Losing Eight Of Nine Games

As their first season back in Los Angeles in over 20 years nears its end, the Rams have made a bold move.

Rams Fire Coach Jeff Fisher After Losing Eight Of Nine Games

The team announced on Monday afternoon that they are firing head coach Jeff Fisher. 

Fisher, 58, has been the Rams’ head coach since 2012. In that time, he has compiled a 31-45-1 record with no playoff appearances. Fisher signed a two-year contract extension just before the start of the 2016 season.

A Fisher-led team has not had a winning record since 2008, when he coached the Titans to a 13-3 record.

Special teams coordinator John Fassel will be the Rams’ interim coach, the team stated.

The Rams (4-9) suffered a brutal 42-14 home loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, their fourth straight loss and eighth in the last nine games. Los Angeles’ three previous losses came against the Dolphins, Saints and Patriots.

“Making a decision such as this — especially during the season — is one of the most difficult in sports,” said Rams owner Stanley Kroenke. “I have great respect for Jeff as a coach, person, father and friend.

Kroenke continued: “He has worked tirelessly despite some challenging circumstances. He played an integral role in helping this team make history in returning the NFL to Los Angeles, and we always will be grateful for his commitment and dedication to our organization.

“However, this is the right time to make a change as our performance has not lived up to my or our fans’ expectations. We all are focused on improving as an organization and building a team that makes Los Angeles proud. Our mission is to celebrate a Super Bowl title with our fans in Los Angeles. Today is the first step to bringing us closer to that goal.”

The Rams began their season 3-1, but then poor quarterback play from incumbent Case Keenum– coupled with lingering calls by fans and critics for 2016 No. 1 overall pick Jared Goff to start ahead of Keenum– hung over the team.

The Rams will next play the Seahawks in Seattle on Thursday.

SANTA CLARA, CA – SEPTEMBER 12: Head coach Jeff Fisher of the Los Angeles Rams yells during their NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on September 12, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)