This could possibly be my G.O.Y.....my write up will come later...but I got chills down my spine everytime I think of this game...weeeeee
Miami(OH) @ North Carolina !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- Thread starter hellah10
- Start date
ok i promised a write-up....I`ll post it as soon as I return from class....was caught up with the local radio show and the BG and Toledo coaches were on...and they were just crackin on UCF....it was great. Even the most respectable coaches have a beef with them :lol:
What is the beef with Central Florida? Are the traditional MAC coaches afraid of another team coming in to DOMINATE the MAC? Is that why they won't let Mount Union in?
Hellah, I'm only kidding. I would hate for you to miss class writing a retort to this response when I'm just giving ya' a li'l crap. 
lol BBC :lol: Hey...Mount Union is pretty good DA PURPLE RADIERSSSS
P-38...bro If there is a money line...Iam gonna be allllll over it! To be honest with ya....some writers ACTUALLY thought Miami would be coming to Chapel Hill as a FAVORITE Now of course, when people bring up the MAC you always hear Marshall and occasionaly Toledo....but how often do you hear about Miami(OH), Miami was 1 mistake away from winning the MAC...they had there chance to beat Marshall. Now...for morons out there who dont know shit about football and they think they do...well you know who they are...ohhh the MAC sucks, they are playing an ACC team...damn dude they shoudl win by 14...etc etc etc...we ALL know this person(s). Iam not sure why UNC opened up as a favorite - fletcher and RAYMOND and those smart guys would know. But I think even at +3.5 there is value! Ive been waiting for this game for months....and now its here....
DA PURPLE RADIERSSSSP-38...bro If there is a money line...Iam gonna be allllll over it! To be honest with ya....some writers ACTUALLY thought Miami would be coming to Chapel Hill as a FAVORITE
Now of course, when people bring up the MAC you always hear Marshall and occasionaly Toledo....but how often do you hear about Miami(OH), Miami was 1 mistake away from winning the MAC...they had there chance to beat Marshall. Now...for morons out there who dont know shit about football and they think they do...well you know who they are...ohhh the MAC sucks, they are playing an ACC team...damn dude they shoudl win by 14...etc etc etc...we ALL know this person(s). Iam not sure why UNC opened up as a favorite - fletcher and RAYMOND and those smart guys would know. But I think even at +3.5 there is value! Ive been waiting for this game for months....and now its here....
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MIAMI(OH)
Offense
The RedHawks have the luxury of one of the best young QBs in the country. Sophomore Ben Roethlisberger was the ?MAC Freshman of the Year? after passing for over 3,000 yards and 25 TDs in 2001. He set numerous school passing records and showed his arm strength with a 70-Hail Mary TD pass as time expired in Miami?s dramatic 30-27 win over Akron. Big Ben has several wonderful receivers to utilize his talents as Miami has one of the best WR units in the MAC. Jason Branch (6?6?? 219) is the team?s leading receiver and has the size and hands to be a game breaker. Branch caught six TDs and had 565 yards in 2001. Eddie Tillitz (5?9?? 175) just seems to find ways to make plays, either at wideout or as a special teams return man. Miami has some other quality receivers they can count on in Martin Nance (6?4?? 203), who caught three TDs in the spring game, Andre Henderson (6?2?? 199), Randy Stegman (5?10?? 195), Michael Larkin (5?8?? 163) & Korey Krikpatrick (6?1?? 197). As usual, Miami has some quality offensive linemen to count on up front. Ben Herrell (6?7?? 302), Frank Smith (6?3?? 287) & Justin Smith (6?5?? 294) return from a line that helped Miami average 400-yards and 27-points per game last year. Other linemen looking to break into the starting lineup include Ben Hartings (6?4?? 272), Ryan Fisher (6?5?? 294), Jacob Bell (6?5?? 301), Dan Kosta (6?2?? 298) & Dave Rehker (6?5?? 303). Miami has very talented tight ends in Geoff Robinson (6?4?? 265) and his back up, Dan Tyler (6?4?? 242) & Matt Brandt (6?5?? 244)
Defense
The RedHawks return seven starters from a defense that ranked 3rd in the MAC in rush defense and overall defense. Had their schedule not been such a bear that featured road trips to Iowa, Michigan and pass-happy Hawaii, or these stats could have been even better. Miami has one of the better LB corps in the MAC, led by Terrell Jones (5?9?? 225). Jones is a mighty mite who was a part of 124 tackles and plays much bigger than his size. Matt Robillard (6?3?? 238) has all-conference abilities after last seasons? 109-tackles, 5 QB sack and 2 INT performance. Other quality LBs include Nathan Clayton (6?2?? 232), Tyler Vogel (6?3?? 242), Alan Eyink (6?4?? 234), Matt Edwards (6?2?? 252), Matt Cohen (6?2?? 219), Chuck Ogden (6?1?? 218) & Marshall Upshaw (5?10?? 222). Ryan Terry (6?2?? 353) and Phil Smith (6?1?? 262) return to the defensive line that was very good against the run. Terry & Smith had 115 tackles and eight sacks between them. Other linemen who will be playing a lot of minutes include Kurt Mester (6?4?? 268), Will Stanley (6?1?? 248), Larry Burt (6?4?? 302), Marcus Johnson (6?3?? 273), Mike Burtz (6?4?? 241).
NORTH CAROLINA
Offense
Today Darian Durant was named the starter for the North Carolina Tar Heels. Much more of this will be in my overview. Can receiver Chesley Borders have the kind of season that Sam Aiken had last year? Last year, Aiken came from out of nowhere to lead the Tar Heels in receptions (46), yards (789) and touchdowns (eight). That breakout year was in part due to the attention given to Bosley Allen, who has since been dismissed from the team, and Kory Bailey, who graduated. Now, Aiken is the guy defenses will try to lock down. Borders (27, 448, 4 TDs) is thrust into a starting role that he seemed destined for coming out of Shelby Crest High. Borders figures to get help from junior Brandon Russell, sophomore Jarwarski Pollock and freshman Derrele Mitchell. UNC will have other options on offense, including two dependable tight ends in Zach Hilton and Kentucky transfer Bobby Blizzard.
Defense
Well well well....we get the heart of it all. Was it not the defense that carried this team to a bowl game. Was it not Julious Peppers, David Thornton, and Ryan Sims? I THINK SO! Why does the defense seem, on paper, to be so suspect? Part of it is pure inexperience, which was bound to happen after eight starters exhausted their eligibility (seven of those were on NFL training-camp rosters; two were top-six draft choices). All three linebackers and the three top linemen are gone. "People have kind of put our defense down because they?re young and inexperienced, and I understand that," Bunting said. "That?s the challenge." Another reason for the defense?s lack of depth is recruiting. If the coaching staff thought the Tar Heels had able backups to linebackers David Thornton, Quincy Monk and Merceda Perry, those reserves would have played more last season.
UNC failed to sign enough linebackers when Carl Torbush was in charge. Among 33 juniors and seniors, who should make up the bulk of a team?s roster, UNC has just two scholarship linebackers: starter Malcolm Stewart and reserve Clay Roberson. Tinkering with the defensive front continues. Tackle Will Chapman was moved to the edge because Bunting was displeased with the play of his ends. That means that Donti Coats, South Carolina transfer Carl Smalls, former offensive lineman Chase Page and others are getting passing grades. The secondary is making straight A?s with safety Dexter Reid and cornerback Michael Waddell leading the way. But that secondary won?t be effective if teams are running at will on the Tar Heels.
Offense
The RedHawks have the luxury of one of the best young QBs in the country. Sophomore Ben Roethlisberger was the ?MAC Freshman of the Year? after passing for over 3,000 yards and 25 TDs in 2001. He set numerous school passing records and showed his arm strength with a 70-Hail Mary TD pass as time expired in Miami?s dramatic 30-27 win over Akron. Big Ben has several wonderful receivers to utilize his talents as Miami has one of the best WR units in the MAC. Jason Branch (6?6?? 219) is the team?s leading receiver and has the size and hands to be a game breaker. Branch caught six TDs and had 565 yards in 2001. Eddie Tillitz (5?9?? 175) just seems to find ways to make plays, either at wideout or as a special teams return man. Miami has some other quality receivers they can count on in Martin Nance (6?4?? 203), who caught three TDs in the spring game, Andre Henderson (6?2?? 199), Randy Stegman (5?10?? 195), Michael Larkin (5?8?? 163) & Korey Krikpatrick (6?1?? 197). As usual, Miami has some quality offensive linemen to count on up front. Ben Herrell (6?7?? 302), Frank Smith (6?3?? 287) & Justin Smith (6?5?? 294) return from a line that helped Miami average 400-yards and 27-points per game last year. Other linemen looking to break into the starting lineup include Ben Hartings (6?4?? 272), Ryan Fisher (6?5?? 294), Jacob Bell (6?5?? 301), Dan Kosta (6?2?? 298) & Dave Rehker (6?5?? 303). Miami has very talented tight ends in Geoff Robinson (6?4?? 265) and his back up, Dan Tyler (6?4?? 242) & Matt Brandt (6?5?? 244)
Defense
The RedHawks return seven starters from a defense that ranked 3rd in the MAC in rush defense and overall defense. Had their schedule not been such a bear that featured road trips to Iowa, Michigan and pass-happy Hawaii, or these stats could have been even better. Miami has one of the better LB corps in the MAC, led by Terrell Jones (5?9?? 225). Jones is a mighty mite who was a part of 124 tackles and plays much bigger than his size. Matt Robillard (6?3?? 238) has all-conference abilities after last seasons? 109-tackles, 5 QB sack and 2 INT performance. Other quality LBs include Nathan Clayton (6?2?? 232), Tyler Vogel (6?3?? 242), Alan Eyink (6?4?? 234), Matt Edwards (6?2?? 252), Matt Cohen (6?2?? 219), Chuck Ogden (6?1?? 218) & Marshall Upshaw (5?10?? 222). Ryan Terry (6?2?? 353) and Phil Smith (6?1?? 262) return to the defensive line that was very good against the run. Terry & Smith had 115 tackles and eight sacks between them. Other linemen who will be playing a lot of minutes include Kurt Mester (6?4?? 268), Will Stanley (6?1?? 248), Larry Burt (6?4?? 302), Marcus Johnson (6?3?? 273), Mike Burtz (6?4?? 241).
NORTH CAROLINA
Offense
Today Darian Durant was named the starter for the North Carolina Tar Heels. Much more of this will be in my overview. Can receiver Chesley Borders have the kind of season that Sam Aiken had last year? Last year, Aiken came from out of nowhere to lead the Tar Heels in receptions (46), yards (789) and touchdowns (eight). That breakout year was in part due to the attention given to Bosley Allen, who has since been dismissed from the team, and Kory Bailey, who graduated. Now, Aiken is the guy defenses will try to lock down. Borders (27, 448, 4 TDs) is thrust into a starting role that he seemed destined for coming out of Shelby Crest High. Borders figures to get help from junior Brandon Russell, sophomore Jarwarski Pollock and freshman Derrele Mitchell. UNC will have other options on offense, including two dependable tight ends in Zach Hilton and Kentucky transfer Bobby Blizzard.
Defense
Well well well....we get the heart of it all. Was it not the defense that carried this team to a bowl game. Was it not Julious Peppers, David Thornton, and Ryan Sims? I THINK SO! Why does the defense seem, on paper, to be so suspect? Part of it is pure inexperience, which was bound to happen after eight starters exhausted their eligibility (seven of those were on NFL training-camp rosters; two were top-six draft choices). All three linebackers and the three top linemen are gone. "People have kind of put our defense down because they?re young and inexperienced, and I understand that," Bunting said. "That?s the challenge." Another reason for the defense?s lack of depth is recruiting. If the coaching staff thought the Tar Heels had able backups to linebackers David Thornton, Quincy Monk and Merceda Perry, those reserves would have played more last season.
UNC failed to sign enough linebackers when Carl Torbush was in charge. Among 33 juniors and seniors, who should make up the bulk of a team?s roster, UNC has just two scholarship linebackers: starter Malcolm Stewart and reserve Clay Roberson. Tinkering with the defensive front continues. Tackle Will Chapman was moved to the edge because Bunting was displeased with the play of his ends. That means that Donti Coats, South Carolina transfer Carl Smalls, former offensive lineman Chase Page and others are getting passing grades. The secondary is making straight A?s with safety Dexter Reid and cornerback Michael Waddell leading the way. But that secondary won?t be effective if teams are running at will on the Tar Heels.
OVERVIEW
Miami is one of those teams that are VERY well balanced! The QB is tall, rough, and can run. He has tall WRs to throw too, they are fast and have size. The running game needs improvement...they averaged 140 rushing yards per game....which by Miami(OH) standards...sucks. But then again that spread offense distributes the ball to all sorts of poeple...including bubble screens to your backfield personell. Miamis defense will probably be #1 in the MAC. They have ALL-MAC LBs and ALL-MAC DL. What more can ya ask for
But the real overview here is UNCs D. How can you replace all that talent. Wellll....Bunting has been doing shuffling here and there. The only guy returning on that DL is DT Will Chapman,who is gonna move to DE. Anddd to be honest with ya, bigg difference when it comes to DT and DE. More responsibilites come with being a DE...you must be faster and must avoid getting backcracked all the time. Here`s some insight..
Tar Heels face challenge of rebuilding staunch defense
By ASSOCIATED PRESS
POSTED: Aug. 23, 2002 12:35 a.m.
CHAPEL HILL - The consensus is that North Carolina will have to outscore opponents in 2002 to be successful. Now that's a change in Chapel Hill.
The Tar Heels have had quite a defensive pipeline going to the NFL the last five years, sending along such players as Greg Ellis, Vonnie Holliday, Brian Simmons, Brandon Spoon, Ryan Sims and Julius Peppers. Since 1998, 18 defensive players from the school have been drafted.
However, last year's defense was gutted by the departure of Peppers, Sims, Joey Evans and linebackers David Thornton and Quincy Monk - all of whom are playing professional football.
Only Will Chapman, who injured his knee in midseason and missed the stretch run, is back from the front seven.
Coach John Bunting, who earned his stripes on the defensive side of the ball, has been scrambling all preseason to piece together a solid unit that can stop somebody.
"Defensively, we are what we are," said Bunting, who led the Tar Heels to an 8-5 record in his first season here. "We have to work hard to become a consistent team."
Of particular concern is the linebacking corps, where the three projected starters have one start between them.
"They are going through a growing process like the offensive line was last year," said offensive guard Jeb Terry. "Our guys on defense need to learn to work together and get some experience. Who was David Thornton last year before he started playing and had a breakthrough season? We have players who can do the same thing this year."
Bunting agrees.
"The athleticism is equal to last year, and the speed is equal to or better," he said.
While the intangibles look good in fall camp, Bunting hopes he can get close to the same results on the field as in 2001 when North Carolina finished 15th in the nation in total defense and reeled off eight of 10 wins after an 0-3 start.
The Tar Heels have arguably the best secondary in the ACC with all-star candidates Michael Waddell and Dexter Reid. North Carolina was 19th in the nation a year ago in pass defense.
"You don't win if you're not good up front, but if you give up a lot of big plays then you're not going to win either," Bunting said. "That's why our secondary is very special this year. Michael Waddell can cover anybody in the country. Last year, we flopped him against the best receivers, and he performed with a great deal of consistency.
"Dexter Reid has done a great job this off-season in terms of his growth as a person and leadership with our squad," Bunting added. "He is going to be a special player in our program for the next few years."
North Carolina should have little trouble moving on the ball on offense, where quarterback Darian Durant returns following a spectacular freshman year.
Durant passed for 1,843 yards and 17 touchdowns splitting time with Ronald Curry, but he left the team in the spring and was about to transfer, then asked to come back.
Bunting cleared Durant's return with the team's leadership group, and the sophomore QB is expected to edge out Florida transfer C.J. Stephens for the start in the opener against Miami of Ohio on Aug. 31.
"He doesn't have to prove himself to us," Terry said of Durant. "Everybody understands there are times when you're unhappy with things and you need to take a step back and look at the big picture and know exactly what's going on with yourself and where you want to be. I think it takes guts to ask to come back on the team. He proved it to us on the field last year."
Durant, who broke all the school's freshman passing records, has dropped 10 pounds and is in great shape heading into his sophomore season.
"It's about time we get some respect on offense," Durant said. "The defense did play well for us last year, but in some of those games, we put up a lot of points. With us being the main focus this year, it's a challenge, and it's exciting."
Bunting hasn't ruled out rotating QBs like he did last season, but whoever is under center will be surrounded by a host of talent.
Willie Parker, Andre Williams and Jacque Lewis lead a talented group at running back, and Sam Aiken and Chesley Borders have big-play potential at wide receiver. The Tar Heels may also have the ACC's best tandem at tight end with Zach Hilton and Kentucky transfer Bobby Blizzard.
Like last season when the program started with Oklahoma, Texas, Maryland and Florida State, the Tar Heels have a difficult early schedule. Syracuse, Texas and Georgia Tech are on the slate before October.
"Because of my experience as a player for a long time and my experience at both levels as a coach, I anticipate fans will have high expectations no matter what," Bunting said.
"We're still building that foundation I talked about last year. We know where our weaknesses are, but we think we can come out of the shoot fast. We think we can be a very good football team this year, and if we're not, I am going to be extremely disappointed along with the fans. My expectations are high."
Others don't think so much of the Tar Heels, who knocked off Florida State 41-9 at home to finish third in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Most predictions this year have North Carolina finishing in the lower third of the league.
"Last year our motto was "Take Respect' and we might do it again because we're not getting any respect again in the league," Terry said. "It's really frustrating to see. All I know is it's lighting a fire under a bunch of guys on our team. The best way to motivate us is to doubt us."
Miami is one of those teams that are VERY well balanced! The QB is tall, rough, and can run. He has tall WRs to throw too, they are fast and have size. The running game needs improvement...they averaged 140 rushing yards per game....which by Miami(OH) standards...sucks. But then again that spread offense distributes the ball to all sorts of poeple...including bubble screens to your backfield personell. Miamis defense will probably be #1 in the MAC. They have ALL-MAC LBs and ALL-MAC DL. What more can ya ask for
But the real overview here is UNCs D. How can you replace all that talent. Wellll....Bunting has been doing shuffling here and there. The only guy returning on that DL is DT Will Chapman,who is gonna move to DE. Anddd to be honest with ya, bigg difference when it comes to DT and DE. More responsibilites come with being a DE...you must be faster and must avoid getting backcracked all the time. Here`s some insight..
Tar Heels face challenge of rebuilding staunch defense
By ASSOCIATED PRESS
POSTED: Aug. 23, 2002 12:35 a.m.
CHAPEL HILL - The consensus is that North Carolina will have to outscore opponents in 2002 to be successful. Now that's a change in Chapel Hill.
The Tar Heels have had quite a defensive pipeline going to the NFL the last five years, sending along such players as Greg Ellis, Vonnie Holliday, Brian Simmons, Brandon Spoon, Ryan Sims and Julius Peppers. Since 1998, 18 defensive players from the school have been drafted.
However, last year's defense was gutted by the departure of Peppers, Sims, Joey Evans and linebackers David Thornton and Quincy Monk - all of whom are playing professional football.
Only Will Chapman, who injured his knee in midseason and missed the stretch run, is back from the front seven.
Coach John Bunting, who earned his stripes on the defensive side of the ball, has been scrambling all preseason to piece together a solid unit that can stop somebody.
"Defensively, we are what we are," said Bunting, who led the Tar Heels to an 8-5 record in his first season here. "We have to work hard to become a consistent team."
Of particular concern is the linebacking corps, where the three projected starters have one start between them.
"They are going through a growing process like the offensive line was last year," said offensive guard Jeb Terry. "Our guys on defense need to learn to work together and get some experience. Who was David Thornton last year before he started playing and had a breakthrough season? We have players who can do the same thing this year."
Bunting agrees.
"The athleticism is equal to last year, and the speed is equal to or better," he said.
While the intangibles look good in fall camp, Bunting hopes he can get close to the same results on the field as in 2001 when North Carolina finished 15th in the nation in total defense and reeled off eight of 10 wins after an 0-3 start.
The Tar Heels have arguably the best secondary in the ACC with all-star candidates Michael Waddell and Dexter Reid. North Carolina was 19th in the nation a year ago in pass defense.
"You don't win if you're not good up front, but if you give up a lot of big plays then you're not going to win either," Bunting said. "That's why our secondary is very special this year. Michael Waddell can cover anybody in the country. Last year, we flopped him against the best receivers, and he performed with a great deal of consistency.
"Dexter Reid has done a great job this off-season in terms of his growth as a person and leadership with our squad," Bunting added. "He is going to be a special player in our program for the next few years."
North Carolina should have little trouble moving on the ball on offense, where quarterback Darian Durant returns following a spectacular freshman year.
Durant passed for 1,843 yards and 17 touchdowns splitting time with Ronald Curry, but he left the team in the spring and was about to transfer, then asked to come back.
Bunting cleared Durant's return with the team's leadership group, and the sophomore QB is expected to edge out Florida transfer C.J. Stephens for the start in the opener against Miami of Ohio on Aug. 31.
"He doesn't have to prove himself to us," Terry said of Durant. "Everybody understands there are times when you're unhappy with things and you need to take a step back and look at the big picture and know exactly what's going on with yourself and where you want to be. I think it takes guts to ask to come back on the team. He proved it to us on the field last year."
Durant, who broke all the school's freshman passing records, has dropped 10 pounds and is in great shape heading into his sophomore season.
"It's about time we get some respect on offense," Durant said. "The defense did play well for us last year, but in some of those games, we put up a lot of points. With us being the main focus this year, it's a challenge, and it's exciting."
Bunting hasn't ruled out rotating QBs like he did last season, but whoever is under center will be surrounded by a host of talent.
Willie Parker, Andre Williams and Jacque Lewis lead a talented group at running back, and Sam Aiken and Chesley Borders have big-play potential at wide receiver. The Tar Heels may also have the ACC's best tandem at tight end with Zach Hilton and Kentucky transfer Bobby Blizzard.
Like last season when the program started with Oklahoma, Texas, Maryland and Florida State, the Tar Heels have a difficult early schedule. Syracuse, Texas and Georgia Tech are on the slate before October.
"Because of my experience as a player for a long time and my experience at both levels as a coach, I anticipate fans will have high expectations no matter what," Bunting said.
"We're still building that foundation I talked about last year. We know where our weaknesses are, but we think we can come out of the shoot fast. We think we can be a very good football team this year, and if we're not, I am going to be extremely disappointed along with the fans. My expectations are high."
Others don't think so much of the Tar Heels, who knocked off Florida State 41-9 at home to finish third in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Most predictions this year have North Carolina finishing in the lower third of the league.
"Last year our motto was "Take Respect' and we might do it again because we're not getting any respect again in the league," Terry said. "It's really frustrating to see. All I know is it's lighting a fire under a bunch of guys on our team. The best way to motivate us is to doubt us."
2001 record: 8-5 overall, 5-3 ACC (third)
Coach: John Bunting, 8-5 overall and at UNC
Yearly compensation: $650,000
Starters lost on offense: 5
Starters lost on defense: 8
Key offensive player: Regardless of whether Darian Durant or C.J. Stephens starts at quarterback, receiver Sam Aiken must be a star for UNC's offense to be productive. Aiken caught a team-high 46 passes for 789 yards in 2001. The Tar Heels need better numbers from him this year.
Key defensive player: Safety Dexter Reid runs the show, emotionally and physically. By far the Heels' best tackler, Reid must help teach a bunch of inexperienced players how to play defense the way Bunting wants it played.
Strong suit: Quarterback Darian Durant set UNC freshman records for touchdown passes (17), passing yards (1,843), completions (142) and total offense (1,971). And if junior C.J. Stephens beats out Durant, it means Stephens must have played exceptionally well in camp. Either way, the Heels are deep at QB.
Weak link: The linebackers are no-names with no experience: Malcolm Stewart, Sean Williams, Devllen Bullard, Doug Justice and Clarence Gaddy. The starters haven't even been sorted out. But when they are, this unit needs to figure out quickly how to play.
Day of reckoning: Oct. 12 against N.C. State. Never mind the Texas game Sept. 14. A UNC victory over State may make for a more successful year than anticipated. If the Heels lose, the all-important bragging rights go back to Raleigh for a year.
Majoring in: 22 percent, undeclared; 18 percent, communications; 18 percent, exercise and sports science; 10 percent, business; 32 percent, other.
Value of full ride: $11,668 this year for in-state athlete, $22,160 for out-of-stater
Number crunching: 2 -- Number of regular-season interceptions in 2001 by UNC's returning players (both by Dexter Reid).
Coach: John Bunting, 8-5 overall and at UNC
Yearly compensation: $650,000
Starters lost on offense: 5
Starters lost on defense: 8
Key offensive player: Regardless of whether Darian Durant or C.J. Stephens starts at quarterback, receiver Sam Aiken must be a star for UNC's offense to be productive. Aiken caught a team-high 46 passes for 789 yards in 2001. The Tar Heels need better numbers from him this year.
Key defensive player: Safety Dexter Reid runs the show, emotionally and physically. By far the Heels' best tackler, Reid must help teach a bunch of inexperienced players how to play defense the way Bunting wants it played.
Strong suit: Quarterback Darian Durant set UNC freshman records for touchdown passes (17), passing yards (1,843), completions (142) and total offense (1,971). And if junior C.J. Stephens beats out Durant, it means Stephens must have played exceptionally well in camp. Either way, the Heels are deep at QB.
Weak link: The linebackers are no-names with no experience: Malcolm Stewart, Sean Williams, Devllen Bullard, Doug Justice and Clarence Gaddy. The starters haven't even been sorted out. But when they are, this unit needs to figure out quickly how to play.
Day of reckoning: Oct. 12 against N.C. State. Never mind the Texas game Sept. 14. A UNC victory over State may make for a more successful year than anticipated. If the Heels lose, the all-important bragging rights go back to Raleigh for a year.
Majoring in: 22 percent, undeclared; 18 percent, communications; 18 percent, exercise and sports science; 10 percent, business; 32 percent, other.
Value of full ride: $11,668 this year for in-state athlete, $22,160 for out-of-stater
Number crunching: 2 -- Number of regular-season interceptions in 2001 by UNC's returning players (both by Dexter Reid).
From Eddie at GoHeels.com
The time has arrived to learn just who will drive the 2002 North Carolina football team.
The Tar Heels open their season Saturday at 1:30 p.m. against Miami of Ohio of the Mid-American Conference. And as Carolina fans learned in 1998, the RedHawks are no pushovers.
Miami won that game on a late field goal, 13-10. A year ago, the RedHawks went 7-5 overall, 6-2 in conference play.
Senior Matt Robillard, a nominee for the Butkus Award as the nation?s top linebacker, and junior Cal Murray, nominee for the Doak Walker Award as the country?s top running back, and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will lead this Miami team.
Roethlisberger has been nominated for the Davey O?Brien Award as the top QB in the country.
Roethlisberger led all freshman quarterbacks in passing yards, touchdown passes and total offense in 2001. He broke school records for passing yards (3,105), completions (241), touchdowns (25), completion percentage (63.3 percent) and total offense (3,294). All of those totals rank among the top 10 in Mid-American Conference history, and his yardage and touchdown totals were both MAC freshmen records. Roethlisberger earned MAC Freshman of the Year.
Robillard, a first-team all-Mid-American Conference player in 2001, started a defensive back before moving to linebacker. He made 109 total tackles and a team-leading 74 solo tackles last season. He led the RedHawks with 13 tackles for loss and made five quarterback sacks.
Murray averaged 7.3 yards per carry a year ago. He finished with 706 yards rushing and eight touchdowns in part-time action during his first two seasons. He ran for a career-high 183 yards and three touchdowns at Ball State. As a freshman, Murray tied a Miami record with four rushing touchdowns in a win against Kent State.
Murray and Roethlisberger could pose a particular problem for the Tar Heels, given their inexperience and overall troubles along the defensive front.
Defensive end Will Chapman is the only returning starter among the front seven on defense, and he moved from tackle to end toward the end of summer camp.
Coach John Bunting concedes that if he were an opposing offensive coordinator, he would run the ball at UNC until the Tar Heels proved they could stop it.
The defense may make the difference in whether Carolina has a winning schedule or not, but who will start at quarterback is the top question among UNC fans.
Bunting said all along that he would not pick a starter at QB until game week, and then last Friday, he would not say whether he planned to announce the starter or keep it a secret until kickoff against the RedHawks.
There is a good chance he will keep the decision quiet so that Miami will have to prepare for Darian Durant and C.J. Stephens.
The coaching staff has been complimentary of Stephens since he arrived as a transfer student in the summer of 2001. He has a strong and accurate arm, and he?s mobile.
Durant is a proven leader, having set numerous records as a freshman a year ago while sharing time with Ronald Curry.
Whoever is playing quarterback will need to produce in a big way, given the Tar Heels? uncertainty on defense. Offensive guard Jeb Terry said that the offense understands its responsibility.
?We?re ready to carry the load,? Terry said. ?Our offense has big playmakers. And, to tell you the truth, in the first few games we?re going to have to carry the load.
?As everyone knows, we have young guys on defense. They are capable guys, but they still need that game-time experience. It?s reverse roles from last year. Last the O-line got better as the year went on.
?At the end, we weren?t great, but we made improvements. It?s the same way with the defense. The learning curve will be steeper for them. They?ll pick it up quicker.?
The time has arrived to learn just who will drive the 2002 North Carolina football team.
The Tar Heels open their season Saturday at 1:30 p.m. against Miami of Ohio of the Mid-American Conference. And as Carolina fans learned in 1998, the RedHawks are no pushovers.
Miami won that game on a late field goal, 13-10. A year ago, the RedHawks went 7-5 overall, 6-2 in conference play.
Senior Matt Robillard, a nominee for the Butkus Award as the nation?s top linebacker, and junior Cal Murray, nominee for the Doak Walker Award as the country?s top running back, and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will lead this Miami team.
Roethlisberger has been nominated for the Davey O?Brien Award as the top QB in the country.
Roethlisberger led all freshman quarterbacks in passing yards, touchdown passes and total offense in 2001. He broke school records for passing yards (3,105), completions (241), touchdowns (25), completion percentage (63.3 percent) and total offense (3,294). All of those totals rank among the top 10 in Mid-American Conference history, and his yardage and touchdown totals were both MAC freshmen records. Roethlisberger earned MAC Freshman of the Year.
Robillard, a first-team all-Mid-American Conference player in 2001, started a defensive back before moving to linebacker. He made 109 total tackles and a team-leading 74 solo tackles last season. He led the RedHawks with 13 tackles for loss and made five quarterback sacks.
Murray averaged 7.3 yards per carry a year ago. He finished with 706 yards rushing and eight touchdowns in part-time action during his first two seasons. He ran for a career-high 183 yards and three touchdowns at Ball State. As a freshman, Murray tied a Miami record with four rushing touchdowns in a win against Kent State.
Murray and Roethlisberger could pose a particular problem for the Tar Heels, given their inexperience and overall troubles along the defensive front.
Defensive end Will Chapman is the only returning starter among the front seven on defense, and he moved from tackle to end toward the end of summer camp.
Coach John Bunting concedes that if he were an opposing offensive coordinator, he would run the ball at UNC until the Tar Heels proved they could stop it.
The defense may make the difference in whether Carolina has a winning schedule or not, but who will start at quarterback is the top question among UNC fans.
Bunting said all along that he would not pick a starter at QB until game week, and then last Friday, he would not say whether he planned to announce the starter or keep it a secret until kickoff against the RedHawks.
There is a good chance he will keep the decision quiet so that Miami will have to prepare for Darian Durant and C.J. Stephens.
The coaching staff has been complimentary of Stephens since he arrived as a transfer student in the summer of 2001. He has a strong and accurate arm, and he?s mobile.
Durant is a proven leader, having set numerous records as a freshman a year ago while sharing time with Ronald Curry.
Whoever is playing quarterback will need to produce in a big way, given the Tar Heels? uncertainty on defense. Offensive guard Jeb Terry said that the offense understands its responsibility.
?We?re ready to carry the load,? Terry said. ?Our offense has big playmakers. And, to tell you the truth, in the first few games we?re going to have to carry the load.
?As everyone knows, we have young guys on defense. They are capable guys, but they still need that game-time experience. It?s reverse roles from last year. Last the O-line got better as the year went on.
?At the end, we weren?t great, but we made improvements. It?s the same way with the defense. The learning curve will be steeper for them. They?ll pick it up quicker.?
Durant named starter
Durant named starter
Durant named starting QB against Miami (OH)
By J.B. Cissell, Inside Carolina
Date: Aug 27, 2002
CHAPEL HILL, NC -- University of North Carolina head football coach John Bunting named sophomore Darian Durant the starting quarterback at noon on Monday.
"Darian Durant will be our starting quarterback. He's excited about the opportunity," Bunting said.
He explained that stats and documentation, in conjunction with game experience, bore out that Durant should be the starter but noted that C.J. Stephens has had a good camp, and he will see action in the first two or three games.
Durant found out Sunday night after practice. Bunting pulled him aside and gave him the news.
"I was ecstatic," Durant remarked. "I knew that I had worked hard, and I kind of had a feeling, because of my performance in training camp. But, just to hear the announcement come out of his mouth was a good feeling."
After deciding to leave the team in the winter, Bunting "left the door cracked," to allow Durant to return. The sophomore South Carolina native exercised that option, but not everyone immediately accepted him with open arms, so he has had to go the extra mile to prove his loyalty to the team.
"This summer, I was probably the guy that he hated the most," senior linebacker Malcolm Stewart said. "I pushed him, but I did that because I think certain people on the team felt like he just walked back in after leaving the team. I really didn't feel that way. I just wanted to push him to compensate for the time he was chillin'.
"I had to stay on him, push him, and talk to him to motivate him. But the bottom line is that I did all that for him and for the purpose of us winning. The harder I am on him, the better he'll be. We have a great relationship, and he realizes that I did that for that purpose."
"I just want to earn the respect of everybody on this team," Durant explained, "and, hopefully, earn back the respect of all the fans, because I know with the decision I made earlier, during the winter, it was hard for people to be 100 percent followers. I want to say to everybody that I'm back 100 percent and ready to get this thing rolling."
"It means a lot [to be named starter]," Durant explained further. First of all, Coach Bunting, after all I've done, he came to me and said I'm the starter. I think that means he has 100 percent trust in me. Once you have the head guy on your side, you have everybody on your side. I'm just thankful that he left the door open for me and gave me the opportunity to compete. Hopefully, I can go out and make his decision look like the right one."
Durant named starter
Durant named starting QB against Miami (OH)
By J.B. Cissell, Inside Carolina
Date: Aug 27, 2002
CHAPEL HILL, NC -- University of North Carolina head football coach John Bunting named sophomore Darian Durant the starting quarterback at noon on Monday.
"Darian Durant will be our starting quarterback. He's excited about the opportunity," Bunting said.
He explained that stats and documentation, in conjunction with game experience, bore out that Durant should be the starter but noted that C.J. Stephens has had a good camp, and he will see action in the first two or three games.
Durant found out Sunday night after practice. Bunting pulled him aside and gave him the news.
"I was ecstatic," Durant remarked. "I knew that I had worked hard, and I kind of had a feeling, because of my performance in training camp. But, just to hear the announcement come out of his mouth was a good feeling."
After deciding to leave the team in the winter, Bunting "left the door cracked," to allow Durant to return. The sophomore South Carolina native exercised that option, but not everyone immediately accepted him with open arms, so he has had to go the extra mile to prove his loyalty to the team.
"This summer, I was probably the guy that he hated the most," senior linebacker Malcolm Stewart said. "I pushed him, but I did that because I think certain people on the team felt like he just walked back in after leaving the team. I really didn't feel that way. I just wanted to push him to compensate for the time he was chillin'.
"I had to stay on him, push him, and talk to him to motivate him. But the bottom line is that I did all that for him and for the purpose of us winning. The harder I am on him, the better he'll be. We have a great relationship, and he realizes that I did that for that purpose."
"I just want to earn the respect of everybody on this team," Durant explained, "and, hopefully, earn back the respect of all the fans, because I know with the decision I made earlier, during the winter, it was hard for people to be 100 percent followers. I want to say to everybody that I'm back 100 percent and ready to get this thing rolling."
"It means a lot [to be named starter]," Durant explained further. First of all, Coach Bunting, after all I've done, he came to me and said I'm the starter. I think that means he has 100 percent trust in me. Once you have the head guy on your side, you have everybody on your side. I'm just thankful that he left the door open for me and gave me the opportunity to compete. Hopefully, I can go out and make his decision look like the right one."
Now what does this mean now that Durant is starting. Of course I`ll probably getting dogged on for going against Durant. And Durant - well I love this kid. He made me TONS...I MEAN TONS when they played Oklahoma last year, Hey Ronald Currry...your a HOE :thefinger
Anyways...With Durant, he has a stronggg arm and great presence in the pocket. HE can beat ya with his arm or with his legs. But dont forget the MAC has a few QBs that has the talent of Durant. First off...Jousha Cribbs...this guy was the first freshman ever(I think) to RUSH for over 1000 yards and PASS for over 1000 yards. Not to mention Josh Harris from BG who lit it up all MAC season especially a gutsy 2 point conversion against Northwestern for the win. And how could I ever leave out Taver Bolden and yes...Lord Byron Leftwich....the talent of QBs in the MAC is as great as its ever been. The Miami DL will outpower and outspeed the UNC OLine....Bunting is moving players around on that line and people are still not comfortable with Durants leaving and then coming back just becuase his dad wanted him back. I seriosuly dont think UNC D can handle Miamis passing attack. Remember...Miami was EVER SO CLOSE to going to a bowl game...they lost a TOUGH one against Marshall at home, lost on a BULLSHIT personal foul call against Hawaii and I dont know how the fawk they lost to Kent St....heres what happened to them after Josh Cribbs
Nov 24
Kent State 24 ... Miami 20
What happened: KSU outscored Miami 17-0 in the 2nd half led by a 51-yard touchdown run by Joshua Cribbs and a 26-yard FG from Dave Pavich. The KSU defense stiffened in the 2nd half holding Miami to -1 rushing yards for the game and QB Ben Roethlisberger to 238 yards and one touchdown pass picking him off twice.
Player of the game: Kent State QB Joshua Cribbs was 9 of 20 for 79 yards passing throwing 2 interceptions, but he carried the ball 16 times for 151 yards and two scores.
Our thoughts: Where did this KSU defense come from? After Miami went ballistic against Hawaii last week, they were held in check all second half with no real spark. ... What a great win to build on for next year for the Golden Flashes. With all the young talent and a QB like Cribbs and a RB like Chante Murphy, they should be really excited.
Anyways...With Durant, he has a stronggg arm and great presence in the pocket. HE can beat ya with his arm or with his legs. But dont forget the MAC has a few QBs that has the talent of Durant. First off...Jousha Cribbs...this guy was the first freshman ever(I think) to RUSH for over 1000 yards and PASS for over 1000 yards. Not to mention Josh Harris from BG who lit it up all MAC season especially a gutsy 2 point conversion against Northwestern for the win. And how could I ever leave out Taver Bolden
and yes...Lord Byron Leftwich....the talent of QBs in the MAC is as great as its ever been. The Miami DL will outpower and outspeed the UNC OLine....Bunting is moving players around on that line and people are still not comfortable with Durants leaving and then coming back just becuase his dad wanted him back. I seriosuly dont think UNC D can handle Miamis passing attack. Remember...Miami was EVER SO CLOSE to going to a bowl game...they lost a TOUGH one against Marshall at home, lost on a BULLSHIT personal foul call against Hawaii and I dont know how the fawk they lost to Kent St....heres what happened to them after Josh CribbsNov 24
Kent State 24 ... Miami 20
What happened: KSU outscored Miami 17-0 in the 2nd half led by a 51-yard touchdown run by Joshua Cribbs and a 26-yard FG from Dave Pavich. The KSU defense stiffened in the 2nd half holding Miami to -1 rushing yards for the game and QB Ben Roethlisberger to 238 yards and one touchdown pass picking him off twice.
Player of the game: Kent State QB Joshua Cribbs was 9 of 20 for 79 yards passing throwing 2 interceptions, but he carried the ball 16 times for 151 yards and two scores.
Our thoughts: Where did this KSU defense come from? After Miami went ballistic against Hawaii last week, they were held in check all second half with no real spark. ... What a great win to build on for next year for the Golden Flashes. With all the young talent and a QB like Cribbs and a RB like Chante Murphy, they should be really excited.
How good is Rothlesberger???? EVEN JET LAG WONT STOP HIM!
Nov 17
Hawaii 52 ... Miami 51
What happened: Hawaii PK Justin Ayat nailed a 24-yards field goal with no time left on the clock to cap off one of the wildest games of the year. UH QB Nick Rolovich threw for 500 yards and seven touchdowns with Ashely Lelie catching six passes for 211 yards and three touchdowns. Miami QB Ben Roethlisberger threw for 452 yards and three touchdowns and his nine-yard run with just under two minutes to play gave the RedHawks the lead, but they missed the extra point leading to the final Warrior drive. Miami RB Steve Little ran for 122 yards and three touchdowns.
Player of the game: Hawaii QB Nick Rolovich was 30 of 53 for 500 yards and seven touchdowns.
Our thoughts: Yeah, the defenses didn't stop the offenses, but these were two quarterbacks who were at the top of their games and played extremely well. Whoever had the ball last was going to win and Rolovich got it last. ... Along with the Arkansas - Mississippi game, this might have been the most fun game of the season.
Nov 17
Hawaii 52 ... Miami 51
What happened: Hawaii PK Justin Ayat nailed a 24-yards field goal with no time left on the clock to cap off one of the wildest games of the year. UH QB Nick Rolovich threw for 500 yards and seven touchdowns with Ashely Lelie catching six passes for 211 yards and three touchdowns. Miami QB Ben Roethlisberger threw for 452 yards and three touchdowns and his nine-yard run with just under two minutes to play gave the RedHawks the lead, but they missed the extra point leading to the final Warrior drive. Miami RB Steve Little ran for 122 yards and three touchdowns.
Player of the game: Hawaii QB Nick Rolovich was 30 of 53 for 500 yards and seven touchdowns.
Our thoughts: Yeah, the defenses didn't stop the offenses, but these were two quarterbacks who were at the top of their games and played extremely well. Whoever had the ball last was going to win and Rolovich got it last. ... Along with the Arkansas - Mississippi game, this might have been the most fun game of the season.
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How good is Miami(OH)
Well last year they opened up against Michigan - Rothlisbergers very first collegiat start The final score was 31-13....ohh but the game was ever so close....Michigan was only up 7 points at the half(I think)....If not for 21 points off of Turnovers Miami could of very well BEAT them as in VICTORY as in AT THE BIG HOUSE! Bens first start and he throws 3 INTs....in the 4th quarter Michigan started scoring...but for the first 3 quarters, Michigan had their backs to the wall.
Sept. 1
Michigan 31... Miami (Ohio) 13
What happened: The Wolverines could have made this interesting but the defense scored 21 points of INTs to put the game away. The RedHawks had a couple of chances to make the game close, but squibbled away their redzone chances. This was a closer call for Michigan than the final score would indicate.
Player of the Game: Michigan QB John Navarre. He was 19 0f 32 for 207 yards. Nothing impressive but he didn?t make the mistakes that Miami QB Ben Roethlisberger did. He also engineered two drives in the fourth quarter that closed out the game.
Our Thoughts & Notes: We?d have liked to seen Miami make a game of this. They had the chances but mistakes took them out of it. A more experienced QB would've made a difference ? The Wolverines starting RB, BJ Askew, looked just O.K. on Saturday. He rushed 20 times for 94 yards. Replacing Anthony Thomas might take a while ? Askew said it right when he said that the performance was good enough for Miami but not for Washington next week.
Well last year they opened up against Michigan - Rothlisbergers very first collegiat start
The final score was 31-13....ohh but the game was ever so close....Michigan was only up 7 points at the half(I think)....If not for 21 points off of Turnovers Miami could of very well BEAT them as in VICTORY as in AT THE BIG HOUSE! Bens first start and he throws 3 INTs....in the 4th quarter Michigan started scoring...but for the first 3 quarters, Michigan had their backs to the wall.Sept. 1
Michigan 31... Miami (Ohio) 13
What happened: The Wolverines could have made this interesting but the defense scored 21 points of INTs to put the game away. The RedHawks had a couple of chances to make the game close, but squibbled away their redzone chances. This was a closer call for Michigan than the final score would indicate.
Player of the Game: Michigan QB John Navarre. He was 19 0f 32 for 207 yards. Nothing impressive but he didn?t make the mistakes that Miami QB Ben Roethlisberger did. He also engineered two drives in the fourth quarter that closed out the game.
Our Thoughts & Notes: We?d have liked to seen Miami make a game of this. They had the chances but mistakes took them out of it. A more experienced QB would've made a difference ? The Wolverines starting RB, BJ Askew, looked just O.K. on Saturday. He rushed 20 times for 94 yards. Replacing Anthony Thomas might take a while ? Askew said it right when he said that the performance was good enough for Miami but not for Washington next week.
You know the Mac very well. I can understand the line. It's the perception NC's conf's just has to be better then the Mac. Were about to find out. I believe the dog is the play and down to +4.5 Not sure if the Money Line Is a real good idea. Could me, Im just not sure.
Well of course the ACC is better then the MAC...you`ll never see me argue that..Iam a big fan of the ACC. But in 98 Miami beat UNC...Marshall beat UNC AND Clemson.....so it isnt like the MAC cant beat the ACC(well besides FSU). Its down to 4.5?!?!? Hmm my book still has 8. Maimi will beat these guys...UNC is just in a mess...the defense is gone...they are shuffling guys...the only guy with experience is coming off injury AND playing out of position...so Iam also looking for Miami to run the shit out of the ball as well.
Got you covered. No line is still +7 and up. Im saying I would play the dog here down to as little as +4.5. I go along with you at + 7 or more it's a very good play.
ohhh I understand what your saying now....gee I must of left my brain in class today...shoulda seen the girls in my class
Who likes short shorts...uhhh ME
Who likes short shorts...uhhh ME
Im getting so old you can't believe how good they look to me. Believe It would have been fun to be there.
Believe It would have been fun to be there. 