From Brian Belichick in booth to LB Derek McDonald: How UNC makes defensive calls

Posted Nov 10, 2026
With Steve Belichick no longer UNC's defensive coordinator, the question of who makes defensive calls on Saturdays has a straightforward answer, even if the process behind it is shared. Defensive backs and safeties coach Brian Belichick sends the call in, and linebacker Derek McDonald, who wears the green dot, relays it to the defense on the field. (Tar Heel Tribune)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

What Bill Belichick said about Philip Rivers as NC State coaching move nears
UNC football coach Bill Belichick vs. N.C. State football coach Philip Rivers? That matchup could become a reality in 2027 when the Tar Heels head...
Tue Nov 10, 2026

Xavier Lewis Named Chuck Bednarik Award Semifinalist
North Carolina defensive tackle Xavier Lewis has been named one of 18 semifinalists for the 2026 Chuck Bednarik Award. The award is presented annually to...
Tue Nov 10, 2026

UNC Linebacker Jonathan Agumadu Out For The Season With Injury
UNC linebacker Jonathan Agumadu will miss the remainder of the season with a lower-extremity injury, sources close to the situation confirmed Tuesday. Agumadu posted a...
Tue Nov 10, 2026

2026 UNC Football Opponent Preview: Louisville
UNC Football welcomes Louisville to Kenan Stadium for a primetime ACC matchup Saturday night. The Cardinals enter the game with a 6-3 record and 5-2...
Tue Nov 10, 2026