There is no secret that, even through big wins, the North Carolina defense has been a major talking point. It started when the team gave up almost 50 points to Big 12-side TCU on national television to open up the season. Since then, there have been steady improvements, but the defense still has a huge test looming over the weekend.
In his press conference today highlighting the preparation for the game against UCF, coach Belichick was asked about the defensive improvements they have made. Here is how he responded via Inside Carolina .
"We've definitely made a lot of progress. Our fundamentals are better. We're more consistent in our run fits and our coverage adjustments and things like that. Are we there yet? No, of course not. We have a long way to go, but we are definitely making progress. And I think as those players play together and they have more confidence in each other, our communication improves with different adjustments and challenges the offense gives us"
Some of those players that he is talking about include ACC linebacker of the Week, Mikai Gbayor , and defensive end Melkart Abou-Jaoude . In fact, in the press conference, Belichick had this to say about Abou-Jaoude.
"He's worked so hard since he's been here, he's improved. Feels like every single day, going all the way back February, March, we started spring ball. He just keeps getting better and better at little things."
That comes after Belichick praised him last week for finding his way to two sacks against the Richmond Spiders. The team will also rely on leading tackler Andrew Simpson and ex-Washington linebacker Khmori House as this defense will be in for its toughest contest since Week 1.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: Bill Belichick says UNC football's defense has made a lot of progress
