People cast a wide net and then some narratives get out of control," Smith said. North Carolina fired head coach Mack Brown and has opened its search. Smith’s name was quickly thrown out as a potential candidate,

One day after North Carolina fired coach Mack Brown following a 6–5 start to the season, multiple coaching candidates have popped up as possible replacements, including Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, On3 Sports ' Andy Staples speculated Tuesday.