Retour
Similar to its on-field performances, the North Carolina Tar Heels' win-loss record has ebbed and flowed.
After winning the first two games of the season, the Tar Heels lost back-to-back games, and then prevailed in the last two. It's been a stretch of two-game streaks in either direction. North Carolina is looking to end that trend by winning its third straight game on Saturday against the Syracuse Orange. While it looks like an easy matchup on paper, as Syracuse is 2-4, head coach Bill Belichick isn't overlooking the Orange. Here's what he said about the Tar Heels' opponent.
Three of Syracuse's four losses have been by eight points or less. Considering Syracuse has cycled through four quarterbacks due to injury, it's impressive how well the offense has played in large stretches. On the other hand, the saying is that if you have two, or in this case, four quarterbacks, you have none. North Carolina should take advantage of Syracuse's quarterback carousel. The 74-year-old head coach said the right things, but he knows this situation is an advantageous one for his team.
This offensive line is one of the most intimidating units in the country. However, the Tar Heels' defensive line is littered with difference-making pass rushers, with Melkart Abou Jaoude, Xavier Lewis, and Jaylen Harvey headlining the group. Nevertheless, North Carolina will have its hands full against a stout offensive line. Stopping the run will be a focal point.
While Syracuse has made valiant efforts, there's a reason it has only two wins so far this season. This is a game the Tar Heels should win, and considering the Miami Hurricanes are waiting around the corner in Week 9, leaving Saturday with a 5-2 record is paramount.
These are the types of matchups North Carolina needs to take advantage of, as the latter half of the schedule features several formidable opponents.