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Cedar City • Gary Crowton has stepped down as Southern Utah's offensive coordinator, the school announced Monday.
Crowton, the former BYU head coach who has been a member of Ed Lamb's staff for the last two years, cited "personal reasons" for his decision.
The announcement comes as a surprise, especially because Southern Utah is 3-2 this season, including 2-0 in the Big Sky Conference. The Thunderbirds have won three straight games by a combined score of 129-10.
For now, Crowton will be temporarily reassigned as a special advisor to athletic director Jason Butikofer.
"At this time I feel like it is important for me to step away from the SUU football program because of personal reasons," Crowton said in a statement. "I wish the team and coach Lamb the very best. …
"I appreciate this university and I have really enjoyed my association with the football program. The timing is unfortunate, but I have some issues that need to be dealt with at this time."
Lamb was a defensive assistant on Crowton's staff at BYU in 2001.
"Gary … has been a great friend and an amazing mentor for me," he said. "I appreciate the base and philosophy he has provided for our team."
According to Lamb, assistant offensive coordinator and receivers coach Justin Walterscheid will take over Crowton's duties.