After just one year at Penn State, Ted Roof has resigned from his position as defensive coordinator to serve the same position at his alma mater, Georgia Tech.

Roof was a four-year letterwinner as a linebacker at Georgia Tech and served as team captain as a senior. He returned to his alma mater in 1998 as linebackers coach before being promoted to defensive coordinator from 1999-2001.

“I’ve known Ted for a long time and I’m excited that he has decided to come back to Georgia Tech,” Georgia Tech head coach Paul Johnson said in a press release. “He’s one of the most respected football coaches in the nation.”

Roof’s defense ranked second in the Big Ten in scoring defense averaging 19.1 points per game. Additionally, the Nittany Lion defense ranked first in the Big Ten in sacks (34) and third in turnover margin. Nationally, Roof’s defense ranked tied for first in red zone defense, 15th in sacks, 16th in scoring defense, and 29th in total defense.

“I am very appreciative of Ted’s contributions to Penn State,” Penn State head coach Bill O’Brien said in a release. “Ted and I have known each other a long time and coached together at Georgia Tech, his alma mater. Ted is a great coach and person. He earned the respect of our players and they enjoyed playing for him. We wish Ted and his family well.”

As a result of Roof’s departure, O’Brien promoted John Butler to defensive coordinator. Butler served as secondary coach last year.

“John did an outstanding job with the secondary this past season and brings tremendous experience, energy and a passion for tenacious defense to the field and in the meeting room,” O’Brien said.

“John quickly developed a great relationship with all our players on defense and special teams and his ability to teach and relate to the players on and off the field will greatly assist in making this an easy transition.”