Bill Belichick makes decision on suspended UNC coach

The University of North Carolina has dealt with a ton of on-field struggles and off-field controversy throughout Bill Belichick‘s inaugural season as the head coach of their football program. Perhaps the biggest came due to actions that resulted in cornerbacks coach Armond Hawkins being suspended, which Belichick made a final decision about on Tuesday.

Hawkins received his suspension earlier this month from the university after it was discovered that he had violated NCAA rules regarding improper benefits afforded to recruits in the form of sidelines passes, which prompted an investigation from the UNC athletics department into “other potential actions detrimental to the team and University”.

The situation involving Hawkins further added to concerns around Belichick’s program off the field after reports emerged regarding current players violating NCAA guidelines by selling complimentary tickets given to them.

All of the off-field controversy has only been further amplified by extremely lackluster play on the field by Belichick’s team, who dropped to 2-4 on the season in Week 7 after losing to Cal.

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While it’s unclear whether the on-field results will turn around anytime soon, the program will at least be able to move on from the controversy involving Hawkins.

Speaking with reporters during his weekly press conference on Tuesday, Belichick made an announcement about Hawkins’ future at UNC, explaining that he had been cleared by the athletic department to return to his role as a defensive backs coach moving forward.

“Yeah, he’s back,” said Belichick. “The university cleared him; they went through their process with him and he’s back, yes.”

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UNC will certainly need to come prepared in Week 9 if they are going to pull off an upset win over the No. 16-ranked Virginia Cavaliers, considering the Tar Heels are coming into the game on a three-game losing streak.

Based on Belichick’s comments here, it sure seems like Hawkins is being welcomed back with open arms. So maybe his return to his role will give the Tar Heels’ defense a much-needed spark for a game that could go a long way in stopping the bleeding in Chapel Hill.

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