UNC freshman earns weekly ACC football honors

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Few people expected the UNC football team to play Notre Dame close last weekend. Instead of losing by three touchdowns like the spread predicted, North Carolina traded punches with the Fighting Irish throughout in a 37-26 loss.

Despite two early turnovers, the Tar Heel (2-2, 0-1 ACC) offense cracked Notre Dame's (5-0) near-impenetrable defense. UNC scored four touchdowns, including one to open the second half on an electric, 98-yard kickoff return by true freshman Jaden Jefferson.

On Monday, Jefferson deservedly won weekly honors for his big play, with the ACC naming him Specialist of the Week.

North Carolina scored on its final first-half possession, when Billy Edwards connected with Shamar Easter in the closing seconds, giving itself momentum heading into a long break. Receiving the opening kickoff to begin third-quarter action, Jefferson then raced his way down the Kenan Stadium grass and into the end zone, setting off a plethora of loud cheers.

During the Tar Heels' postgame press conference, star wide receiver Jordan Shipp said that raucous return was Jefferson's first touch in a collegiate game. Jefferson previously suited up for the ETSU and Clemson games, also recording a tackle vs. Notre Dame, but that kick return score was his first big moment.

A 5'9" freshman wide receiver from Oakland (Calif.), Jefferson just earned himself more playing time with Saturday's breakout performance. UNC likes to mix up its special teams group, but Jefferson should now be his team's top returner.

With North Carolina traveling up to 25th-ranked Pitt this coming weekend, can Jefferson continue his human highlight reel in a must-win ACC clash?

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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC freshman earns weekly ACC football honors

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