Larry Fedora will not return as North Carolina's head coach, the program announced Sunday.
“We appreciate all that Larry Fedora has done for us over the last seven years – coming to Carolina in the midst of an NCAA case and bringing stability to our football program when we most needed it,’’ AD Bubba Cunningham said. “Despite injuries, despite setbacks and hardships, Larry never made excuses. He focused his teams on overcoming adversity, and I deeply respect the way he persevered and led our program each day with integrity through some tough times. This was not an easy decision because of the deep affinity I have for Larry. It simply is time to take our football program in a new direction.”
North Carolina was 45-43 in Fedora's seven seasons, including a high water mark of 11-3 with an ACC Coastal championship in 2015. However, the program backslid to 5-19 over the past two seasons, including a 2-9 mark this season.
Fedora released the following statement following his firing:
"It has been a great honor to be a part of this incredible University. I am extremely disappointed that I will no longer be UNC’s head football coach - I hate that it had to end this way.
"The last two seasons have been challenging and heartbreaking. The results are not what we wanted and it has been frustrating for everyone involved – coaches, athletes, fans and supporters alike. The results did not reflect the commitment and hard work put in by our players and staff. The players never quit – ever. That speaks to the character of this team and this great University.
"I wanted the opportunity to fix this. I wanted to make the changes necessary to win again. I also understand this business. I understand that you don’t always get the time you want to turn things around. I respect the administration’s position and understand their actions.
"I leave UNC grateful for the opportunity I was given seven years ago. I am thankful I had the chance to work with Chancellor Folt and Bubba Cunningham; I appreciate their leadership and friendship. My family and I will always cherish the time we spent and relationships formed here at UNC and in Chapel Hill."
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.
Update> With strong candidates such as Scott Satterfield, Blake Anderson, Seth Littrell and Tony Elliott who would all probably do very well as the next head coach, there have been a lot of whispers in the profession about Mack Brown becoming the next head coach. We'll keep you posted.