North Carolina Football: 3 takeaways from shellacking of rival Duke

3 of 4

Nov 7, 2020; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils safety Marquis Waters (0) goes up for a block on a pass by North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Sam Howell (7)during the second quarter at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

2. This was a tale of two quarterbacks

Coming into this season, continuity was going to be a key factor in any team’s success. One of the biggest factors in the direction of both the Blue Devils and Tar Heels is continuity on offense. While the Tar Heels brought back almost everyone on offense, including quarterback Sam Howell, the Blue Devils replaced nearly everyone on offense, including the quarterback.

Clemson transfer Chase Brice did not have the benefit of spring or summer camp. Brice didn’t come on campus to practice with the team until July 13. The graduate transfer had less than two months to absorb a brand new playbook, terminology, and get used to new personnel. Howell, on the other hand, had much more continuity.

Howell had the benefit of returning with last season’s receivers and running backs in addition to most of last season’s offensive line. That has shown itself in the way each quarterback has played. Brice has thrown 11 interceptions and has completed less than 60 percent of his passes. Howell, on the other hand, has completed 67 percent of his passes with just four interceptions.

When QB1 is figured out, it makes a huge difference.

Home/North Carolina Tar Heels