Clemson's upcoming matchup with North Carolina will feature a Tar Heels team dealing with significant changes to its coaching staff and multiple off-field issues.With the Tigers set to face UNC on Sunday, the program has confirmed that defensive coordinator Steve Belichick has resigned. The son of head coach Bill Belichick had been away from the team since August 6, when he went on medical leave amid an internal university investigation.North Carolina released a statement addressing the findings of that investigation.
“The investigation determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct,” the school said in a statement.
“The investigation also found that these actions were isolated in scope
and not a systemic failure.”Steve Belichick's departure is not the first involving a prominent member of the Tar Heels' football staff. General manager Mike Lombardi also resigned last month in connection with the investigation.
According to multiple reports, Brian Belichick, the youngest son of North Carolina's head coach, is expected to take over defensive play-calling responsibilities for Sunday's game against Clemson.The situation adds another layer of uncertainty for a UNC program that is also dealing with legal matters involving two of its players.
Among them is freshman wide receiver CJ Sadler, who will not be available against the Tigers. Sadler had one of his most productive performances of the young season in North Carolina's victory over East Tennessee State last week, finishing with three catches for 66 yards.Through the Tar Heels' opening games, he has recorded four receptions for 73 yards, putting him fourth on the team in catches.
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For Clemson, Sunday's contest now comes against an opponent navigating a change in defensive leadership while also losing a contributor on offense.The Tigers will look to take advantage of their opportunity against a North Carolina team facing plenty of distractions heading into the weekend.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: North Carolina defensive coordinator resigns ahead of Clemson matchup
