Following another season in which its defense finished near the bottom of the ACC, North Carolina fired defensive coordinator Gene Chizik, the school said on Wednesday morning. UNC coach Mack Brown praised Chizik as someone who “worked tirelessly to provide the best coaching and mentorship” for the Tar Heels players, but Brown decided to look for a new defensive coordinator after the Tar Heels finished tied for 10th in the ACC in points allowed per game (27.3) and 12th in yards allowed per game (404.4).
“We met extensively following the season,” Brown said in a statement, “and despite the improvements from last season to this season, we mutually agreed that parting ways would be best for both him and the program.” I’d like to thank Gene and his family for everything they’ve done for our program and wish them nothing but the best.
In another shift, Brown said that senior defensive analyst Ted Monachino will take over as defensive line coach for the Tar Heels, succeeding Tim Cross. UNC also announced that co-defensive coordinator Charlton Warren will stay on staff as associate head coach for defense, overseeing the defensive backs. Monachino joined the program as a senior defensive analyst before to the 2023 season and will succeed Cross, who spent the previous five seasons as defensive line coach. “I want to thank Coach Cross and his family for all they’ve done for our program,” Brown added in his statement. “He’s a wonderful man and an excellent football coach.” Tim loves deeply about the young men he mentors, as evidenced by the relationships he has formed with them
“As I evaluated the program, I felt that it was the right time to make a change at that position. I was very impressed with coach Monachino’s work ethic and acumen during his first year as an analyst. I believe his depth of experience at the NFL and collegiate levels will be a great asset to not only our defensive line room, but our defense as a whole. It’s also an added bonus that our players are already familiar with him. I’m excited to see what he can do in this new role.” Monachino has 33 years of football coaching experience at all levels, including 16 years in the NFL, with an emphasis on outside linebackers and defensive line. Chizik’s stint at UNC was his second, and he has had a long coaching relationship with Brown.
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