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,

Since North Carolina fired Mack Brown on Tuesday, Arthur Smith emerged as an early favorite to fill the vacant head coaching position. Smith, a 2006 alum of the school, has since confirmed his interest but remains committed to his current job as the Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator for the time being.