North Carolina Football: 3 takeaways from shellacking of rival Duke

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Nov 7, 2020; Durham, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back Javonte Williams (25) runs away from Duke Blue Devils linebacker Shaka Heyward (42) during the second half at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

3. North Carolina’s run game dominated

The run game has been the catalyst for the Tar Heels offense all season. This game was no different. Both Javonte Williams and Michael Carter were difficult to contain. Williams ran for a game-high 151 yards and three touchdowns while Carter chipped in 80 yards and one touchdown. The run game opened up the passing game.

It was obvious from the beginning that North Carolina wanted to dominate the game upfront and take advantage of Duke’s undersized and outmanned defensive line. The Tar Heels did just that running the football 47 times. The running attack forced man coverage on the outside, and Sam Howell took advantage most of the game.

Duke had issues all game with the Tar Heels running game, allowing 7.2 yards per rush. The lack of size was a problem for the Blue Devils. The Tar Heels were at the second level almost every run in this game.

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