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

UNC Safety Greg Smith Is Everywhere
Defensive players don't put points on the board apart from the occasional pick-six or fumble return. But points prevented are just important as points scored,...
Tue Oct 20, 2026

From Syracuse to North Carolina: Derek McDonald Set to Face His Former Team
When North Carolina hosts Syracuse on Saturday night, the matchup will carry extra significance for one of the Tar Heels' defensive leaders. For graduate linebacker...
Tue Oct 20, 2026

Video: IC Podcast - UNC Football Halfway Home
UNC Football sits at 4-2 overall halfway through the 2026 season and has exceeded expectations for nearly everyone that follows the Tar Heel program. Inside...
Tue Oct 20, 2026

Jaylen McGill on the Game Winner vs. Duke, Déjà Vu, and More
UNC running back Jaylen McGill rushed for a touchdown at Wallace Wade Stadium when he was in fifth grade, during the Carolina Bowl, where a...
Tue Oct 20, 2026