UNC shifts players to prepare for Austin's absence

North Carolina has shifted players along its defensive line, a telling move that hints at the seriousness of the NCAA investigation into Marvin Austin.

Junior Michael McAdoo, who has been the back at right defensive end behind Robert Quinn, could start at left end if Austin is out. Junior Quinton Coples is now playing both defensive end and defensive tackle – he could start at left defensive tackle if Austin is not available.

Coach Butch Davis said UNC was looking at its options given the “uncertainty” of Austin.

“At any given time, we want to get the four best guys in the game,” Davis said.
Coples had played only defensive end last year and in the spring before the shift with fall camp.

Depth along the line is important to UNC, which will have at least two new starters in what is otherwise an experienced defense. Coples only started one game last year and Tydreke Powell, the projected starter at right tackle, did not start a game in 2009.