HOUSTON (AP) -- The Houston Texans have fired defensive coordinator Richard Smith, secondary coach Jon Hoke and defensive line coach Jethro Franklin.
Team spokesman Tony Wyllie confirmed Tuesday's moves, which came after the Texans finished 8-8 for the second straight season.
Houston's offense finished the year ranked third in the NFL, but the defense was 22nd, allowing more than 336 yards a game.
Only five teams allowed more points a game than the Texans' 24.6. Houston's defense improved late in the season but didn't live up to expectations for a unit with three first-round picks, including 2006's top pick Mario Williams.
(Copyright ©2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
