Sure, call me an optimist. However, if you follow college football, you will recall that each year there are always teams that surprise everyone. And this year it is the Tar Heels turn.
Here's why:
1) EXPERIENCE ON DEFENSE - Defense wins championships and UNC has good overall returning players on defense. From the depths of a few years back when the heels were probably the worst defensive team in the country the Tar Heels have improved each year and are ready to have a breakout year on the defensive side of the ball. Names like Kyndraus Guy, Hillee Taylor, Shelton Bynum, Larry Edwards and Kareen Taylor will dominate the headlines this season.
2) THE RETURN OF THE 1000 YARD RUSHER - or maybe rushers. I believe the ghosts of running backs past will make an appearance in Kenan Stadium this fall. The combo of McGill and Edwards could be as potent as the old Johnson-Johnson combo in the 90's. And it needs to be.
New quaterbacks and a new system/terminology could mean some problems in the passing game. But, a smashmouth running attack will eat up clock, move the chains and win games. And I believe this couching staff knows that.
3) ISSUES AT MIAMI AND VA TECH - I know most folks feel Miami is just too talented not to have a top 10 team this year but I am not so sure. Coaching does matter and I do not believe Larry Coker is a top 10 coach. They had a lot of coaching changes in the offseason and I believe that fact will mean a slow start for the Hurricanes.
At Va Tech, they have a restocking issue. They lost a lot of talent. They lost seven of their starters last year who were voted All-ACC. I just don't think they can play at the same level again with so many new starters in key positions. At the very least, it gives the Tar Heels a chance.
Also, not to forget about Ga Tech, they will have a tough time in the ACC as most of their tough ACC games are on the road ( at Va Tech, at Clemson, at NC State, at UNC ).
4) EXCELLENT COACHING STAFF - From top to bottom, the UNC coaching staff is top-notch. They have a mix of young and old coaching talent who all seem to be on the same page. The two coordinators are highly regarded in the football community and will get the job done this year.
5) OVERALL TALENT LEVEL - The Tar Heels have recruited well over the last 5 years and this is the year that many of those players have key roles on the team. Plus, they have quality depth which always is needed as injuries will happen. I don't know if any one player will be a "star" on this team ( maybe one will ) but one "star" cannot win games....football is a team game and I believe the Heels have a terrific TEAM that will get results on the field.
We'll know for sure soon. The Tar Heels get Va Tech ( in Chapel Hill ) for their second game of the season. Win that one and they are on their way!
Forever biased,
MrTarheel
