Marvin Lewis to run Bengals' defense after Teryl Austin fired

The Cincinnati Bengals announced Monday that defensive coordinator Teryl Austin has been fired and head coach Marvin Lewis will manage the unit going forward.

The news comes one day after the Bengals allowed 51 points at home to the New Orleans Saints. They also became the first team in the Super Bowl era to surrender at least 500 yards in three straight games, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Austin was hired prior to the 2018 campaign, replacing Paul Guenther. He spent the previous four seasons as the Detroit Lions' defensive coordinator.

Cincinnati has dealt with injuries to its defense - mainly linebacker Vontaze Burfict and pass-rusher Carl Lawson - and the unit is currently ranked last overall in the NFL, having allowed 454.6 yards per game.

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