Heels need to stay in takeaway mode

Inside the game

North Carolina's defense had been itching for some turnovers. It got 'em during its 42-12 rout against Georgia Southern. Bruce Carter, Zach Brown, Kendric Burney and Gene Robinson grabbed interceptions, while Quan Sturdivant and E.J. Wilson recovered fumbles. Not bad for a team that had previously forced only seven turnovers -- although it should be noted that of the 13 turnovers now forced this season, 10 have come against FCS teams. The question now is: Can the defense produce similar takeaway performances against ACC teams, when it counts?

Game balls

LBs Sturdivant and Carter: Sturdivant turned his fumble recovery into a 49-yard touchdown run, and Carter returned his interception 41 yards for a score. It was the second career touchdown for each.

RB Ryan Houston: His 7-yard touchdown run marked the longest of his career; he had three scores in the game.

Great call

Substituting liberally in the second half, particularly on the offensive line. It was great that Jonathan Cooper was able to return to the starting lineup for the first time since the opening game, and that Kyle Jolly was healthy enough to play. But as thin as the O-line remains, it was a good idea not to risk more injuries when the game was already out of hand.

Penalty flags

UNC put up 42 points, but the offense wasn't exactly sizzling. Twenty-eight of those points came off turnovers, 227 of Carolina's 289 total yards came in the first half, and the Tar Heels didn't score after halftime.

Looking ahead

The Tar Heels have a week and a half to get healthy and prepare for their home game on Thursday, Oct. 22 (ESPN) against Florida State.

Latest Comment View all comments

Images