UNC defensive coordinator Gene Chizik and defensive line coach Tim Cross have been relieved of their duties, the football program announced on Wednesday. Senior defensive analyst Ted Monachino will take over for Cross, and the program will undertake a national search to select Chizik’s replacement.

“Gene Chizik is one of the best football coaches I’ve shared the sideline with during my 46 years of coaching,” said head coach Mack Brown. “We met extensively following the season, and despite the improvements from last season to this season, we mutually agreed that parting ways would be in the best interest of both he and the program. I want to thank Gene and his family for all they’ve done for our program and wish them nothing but the best.”

Chizik spent the last two seasons with the Tar Heels after a previous two-year stint in Chapel Hill in 2015 and 2016. In 2023, the Tar Heels ranked 95th out of 130 FBS teams in total defense with 404.4 yards allowed per game.

“Being a part of 36 wins and two ACC Coastal Championships during my four years at UNC has truly been a blessing,” Chizik stated. “Mack Brown and I will continue to be the closest of friends and I want to wish all of the coaches, players and administration the best moving forward. I love these young men at UNC and will always be grateful that our paths crossed.”

Cross arrived in Chapel Hill with Brown prior to the 2019 season. Carolina ranked no higher than ninth in the ACC in sacks in four of five seasons under Cross, including a last-place finish in 2022.

“I want to thank Coach Cross and his family for all they’ve done for our program,” said Brown. “He is a wonderful man and an outstanding football coach. Tim really cares about the young men he coaches, and you can see that in the relationships he’s built with them. We wish him well in his future endeavors.

Defensive backs coach Charlton Warren will remain on staff with the title of Assistant Head Coach for Defense.

 

Featured image via UNC Athletic Communications

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