UNC defense faces tough test against Clemson with loss of Okakpu

Posted Oct 17, 2011
Just when North Carolina’s defense is preparing to face one of its toughest opponents of the season -- undefeated and eighth-ranked Clemson, which is second in the ACC in total offense and points scored – the Tar Heels lose a starting linebacker. Senior Ebele Okakpu has been dismissed for “conduct detrimental to the team,’’ interim head coach Everett Withers announced at his Monday news conference. (Raleigh News & Observer)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

Derek McDonald on Leading UNC's Linebackers, Steve Belichick, and More
Syracuse transfer linebacker Derek McDonald has a unique vantage point to gauge how UNC's edge rushers are performing and understands their potential. "We have a...
Wed Aug 12, 2026

Carolina Insider Podcast: UNC Football Training Camp, Basketball Talk, Mallory Wilmouth
Season 11 of the Carolina Insider Podcast begins as UNC Football training camp is in full swing (3:36). Carolina Basketball continues to adjust its roster...
Wed Aug 12, 2026

Ade Willie's Versatility a Big Plus for North Carolina's Secondary
Experience and versatility are intangibles that Ade Willie brought to North Carolina after spending four seasons at Michigan State. They are his greatest assets and...
Wed Aug 12, 2026

Chansky’s Notebook: Carolina Conundrum
There is no question Michael Lombardi will lose his job as UNC Football’s general manager and leave Chapel Hill. UNC has attorneys across the state...
Wed Aug 12, 2026