North Carolina is revamping its defensive coaching staff following a disappointing second half of the previous season. The university revealed on Wednesday that defensive coordinator Gene Chizik and defensive line coach Tim Cross will not be retaining their roles for the 2024 season. Head coach Mack Brown will be in search of a new coordinator, and senior defensive analyst Tim Monachino is set to replace Cross.
Despite a strong start with a 6-0 record and reaching No. 10 in the AP Top 25, the Tar Heels struggled defensively in the latter part of the season. They allowed 30 or more points to every Bowl Subdivision opponent during the second half, culminating in a 30-10 loss to West Virginia in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. This followed a season of challenges in their run to an Atlantic Coast Conference division title in 2022 during Chizik’s first season back with the Tar Heels.
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After postseason discussions, the school stated that Brown and Chizik mutually agreed to part ways, emphasizing their continued friendship. Brown expressed that it was the appropriate time for a change in the defensive line, with Monachino, who joined the program before the 2023 season, taking over. Monachino brings a wealth of experience, including 16 years in the NFL.
