UNC FOOTBALL 2023 OUTLOOK

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Offense:

On the offensive side of the ball, there is one big question for this UNC team: how will their air raid offense look without Josh Downs?

With lead receiver Josh Downs headed to the NFL, Drake Maye will need to find a new target. UNC brought in former Kent State receiver, Devontez Walker. Walker ended last season with 58 receptions 921 yards, and 11 touchdowns. UNC was also able to bring in transfer Nate McCollum, out of Georgia Tech. McCollum ended last season with 60 receptions and 655 yards receiving, but only 3 touchdowns. UNC does, however, return J.J. Jones, the junior receiver from Myrtle Beach. Jones went for 24 receptions and 434 yards last season.

With this trio of receivers, I find it hard to believe that UNC will have a problem with their passing game this upcoming season. UNC has an entire offensive line of either seniors or graduate-year players. Drake Maye will have no problem taking his time passing the ball. I believe UNC will have no problem scoring at all this season.

Defense:

There are questions to be answered on this Carolina defense. First, can they stop the pass? Last year, UNC let up 270.7 passing yards per game. The next question is, can they stop the run? UNC averaged 173.6 rushing yards against them.

There is good news though. UNC brought in 5 defensive transfers. They brought in free safety Derrik Allen, cornerback Armani Chatman, corner back Alijah Huzzie, safety Antavious Lane, and linebacker Amari Gainer. All of these guys are upperclassmen and have seen the playing field. Look for these guys to step up and give UNC the spark they need. UNC also has 20 upperclassmen on the defensive side of this roster.

This Veteran defense paired with this explosive offense is dangerous. Look for UNC to go on a run this season.