Retour
UNC football snapped its two-game losing streak with a 38-21 win at UConn.
The Tar Heels (5-4, 2-3 ACC) have earned four of their five wins away from Chapel Hill, including a balanced victory against the Huskies (4-5) on Nov. 7 in East Hartford.
With the win, Bill Belichick's team can get to bowl eligibility with one more win across its final three games. The Tar Heels host Louisville before traveling to Virginia and returning home to face N.C. State in the regular-season finale.
Here’s our report card for the Tar Heels vs. UConn.
Following an interception on the opening drive, UNC's offense settled down and produced a 21-point second quarter to take command in the best quarter under Bill Belichick. The Tar Heels had balance, with Billy Edwards throwing touchdown passes to Jelani Thurman and Jordan Shipp. Thurman had two TD catches and Benjamin Hall had an explosive run for a TD.
The Huskies had some success, but UNC was able to create turnovers after two games without a takeaway. The Tar Heels scored 14 points off two turnovers and limited explosive plays against a UConn offense that can create problems. UNC finished with a season-high three takeaways, with Jalon Thompson adding a late interception.
Rece Verhoff made a field goal in the second half to make it a two-possession game and the Tar Heels didn't have any eye-popping mistakes in the third phase. Verhoff could've extended the lead, but it's tough to be too critical in a bad weather game.
Bill Belichick and Bobby Petrino continue to play the right notes with this team. It could have been a tricky spot coming off a close call against No. 1 Miami, but the Tar Heels looked focused and were able to execute in a road win.
UNC linebacker Timir Hickman-Collins set the tone with a defensive touchdown to give the Tar Heels a lead it wouldn't relinquish. In addition to the pick-six, Hickman-Collins had a forced fumble and fumble recovery.
Following four emotional, close games, the Tar Heels snapped a two-game losing streak with a gritty and balanced performance at UConn. Now, UNC only needs one more win to reach bowl eligibility.