Written by Mark Bergin, senior producer for WRAL’s multiplatform team.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The football team of North Carolina Tar Heels has appointed a fresh defensive coordinator.

On Friday, the university confirmed the appointment of Geoff Collins, who brings with him 27 years of experience coaching in collegiate settings.

According to a news release from UNC head coach Mack Brown, Geoff is an exceptional defensive strategist who has achieved success as both a head coach and coordinator in various locations. His extensive experience demonstrates his ability to effectively lead our program’s players, and he will use that knowledge to enhance our defense.

“We were extremely impressed during our interview with Geoff. He was incredibly well-prepared, having watched all of our games and familiarized himself with our team members. He also had clear plans for improving our players and the defensive unit as a whole. I am eager to bring Geoff and his family to Chapel Hill and begin working together.”

Collins takes over for Gene Chizik as the defensive coordinator for North Carolina.

On Wednesday, Mack Brown, the head coach, declared that Chizik and defensive line coach Tim Cross will not be coming back in 2024.

In 2023, the Tar Heels were ranked 95th in total defense, allowing an average of 404.4 yards per game, and 72nd in scoring defense, with an average of 27.31 points allowed per game in the NCAA.

UNC began the season with a record of 6 wins and 1 loss, and even reached the No. 10 spot in the rankings. However, they ultimately ended with a final record of 8 wins and 5 losses. In their last seven games against FBS opponents in 2023, UNC allowed a minimum of 30 points.

Collins was the head coach at Georgia Tech from 2019-2022, where he achieved a record of 10-28.

Prior to that, he held a record of 15 wins and 10 losses as the head coach at Temple between 2017 and 2018.

Collins was the defensive coordinator at Florida from 2015 to 2016 and at Mississippi State from 2013 to 2014.

Source: wralsportsfan.com