Chapel Hill, N.C. –– The North Carolina Tar Heels are looking to bounce back from a shaky season nopener as they host the UNC-Charlotte 49ers at Kenan Stadium Saturday at 3:00 p.m.
Last week’s 19-17 victory over Minnesota was marred by an unexpected injury to starting quarterback Max Johnson, who is now out for the season. The third quarter departure of Johnson forced Conner Harrell to step in as johnson had to undergo surgery for a broken leg.
After a months-long battle for the starting job, the decision came to a resolve with Johnson announcing earlier today that he’d return for the 2025 season.
With that news, Harrell will officially take over under center and the team must revamp its offense under their new play caller.
Harrel has shown promise in limited field action, however Saturday will be his first official start. Facing a Charlotte team that struggled on both sides of the ball last year, the Tar Heels should have a clear advantage.
The 49ners ended the 2023 season with a 3-9 record for the second year straight and are 0-1 in 2024 after falling 30-7 to James Madison during last week’s season opener.
They too, have a new quarterback in Max Brown whose leadership and attention to detail will be a noteworthy matchup for Harrell.
A win over Charlotte means that the Tar Heels must present a stable front as they endure a new transitional period while also minimizing mistakes that could cost them.
Offensively, Harrell will have to figure out who his targets will be and how to best reach them from the pocket. His athleticism and playmaking abilities can also be seen through his rushing speed, however, he is still the unproven leader of the offense and must figure out what does and doesn’t work for him.
Harrell is flanked by Omarion Hampton, who many believe to be the best running back in college football. UNC’s run game goes through Hampton and his efforts might take precedence as Harrell continues to find his way.
Under new defensive coordinator Geoff Collins, UNC’s defense has shown exceptional improvement – surrendering only 244 yards and recording seven total TFL’s.
Last season the Tar Heels ranked 10th in the ACC in total defense and gave up over 400 yards on average per game, however miscues including pass interference calls and missed tackles last game were evidence of a recurring lack of discipline and attention to detail. This is something that must be polished before they face more formidable opponents when ACC play opens Sept. 28th versus Duke.
With Harrell now at the helm for the remainder of the season, UNC’s offense has high expectations. The team is aiming for a 10-win season and potentially an ACC title.