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

Colts WR Josh Downs Traded To Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs have obtained help at wide receiver, acquiring Josh Downs in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts. The Chiefs sent 2027 fourth-...
Tue Nov 10, 2026

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

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