Three Keys to UNC’s week 3 matchup against Clemson
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North Carolina is 2-0 for the first time since 2024. If they would like to make it 3-0 for the first time since the same year, they will have to beat Clemson (something they haven’t done since 2010) and do it on the road (something they haven’t done since 2001). Here are three things to watch in the Tar Heels’ game vs. the Tigers.
Can the Defense keep the streak alive?
Last season, UNC entered the UCF game having not allowed a touchdown in eight straight quarters. Their defense looked solid. Then over the next eight quarters they allowed 72 points against UCF and Clemson. Much like last season, the Tar Heels are entering this game having not allowed a touchdown in seven quarters. They are getting sacks and forcing turnovers. However, also like last season, they have done it against much lesser competition. Last season, entering the North Carolina game, the Tigers looked beatable at 1-3, not scoring more than 27 in a game, and they blew UNC out (scoring 28 before halftime). This season, the Tigers once again look beatable at 1-1 averaging a mere 16 points per game, but will the defense be able to keep up and hold Clemson in check? Or is this another “break-out” game for the Tigers? Last season, they went 6-2 after beating the Tar Heels.
Will a Clemson Freshman QB once again find success in his first game against UNC?
It was 2022 and UNC was facing Clemson in the ACC title game. Freshman Cade Klubnik was making his first collegiate start and Tar Heel fans everywhere had hope for their first ACC title in the Championship game era. Of course, Klubnick threw for 279 yards and a touchdown while completing 83.3% of his passes as Clemson cruised to an easy 39-10 victory. With senior quarterback Christopher Vizzina injured, the Tigers are once again turning to a freshman in Tait Reynolds for his first career start, and once again it is against the Tar Heels. Will UNC be able to pressure the young signal caller like they did Mason Mims last week? Or will history repeat in another Clemson blowout?
Will UNC special teams be the difference?
As we all know, Bill Belichick has built his career off of defense and special teams play. Well, North Carolina’s special teams continue to be a big question mark for the team. Place kicker Aeron Burrell (who also handles punting duties), is just 2 for 4 on field goals, with his long being only 28 yards, and he is 0-2 on kicks of over 40 yards. If the game is low-scoring and close, it could come down to a key field goal and currently the Tar Heels may be lacking (though there is talk that fifth year senior Rece Verhoff may be eligible for this game).
North Carolina has a chance to go 3-0. However, I have seen this story before. If they show up and keep their mistakes in check, they have a chance. If they give into the moment though, Clemson could add another blowout to this series.
What do you think will be a key to this game? Let us know in the comments below.
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