ACC Football Power Rankings: Can anyone topple Clemson?
By Dante Pryor
3. North Carolina Tar Heels
Key returning players: Sam Howell, Ty Chandler (transfer), Tomari Fox, Tomon Fox
Key losses: Chaz Surratt, Javonte Williams, Michael Carter, Dazz Newsome, Dyami Brown
Season Outlook: This season will test how well Mack Brown and his staff have recruited the last two cycles. This season, the Tar Heels have high expectations despite losing five NFL-caliber prospects this offseason.
The North Carolina Tar Heels lost four of their five best players to the NFL Draft this offseason. Jaovnte Williams, Michael Carter, Dazz Newsome, and Dyami Brown are all on league rosters. This season all comes down to Sam Howell’s development and evolution.
Under ordinary circumstances, a program would look to replace the production of an outgoing running back. The Tar Heels have to replace the production of two. North Carolina has to replace 2385 yards and 28 touchdowns.
The ‘Heels do bring in Tennessee transfer Ty Chandler, but it is nearly impossible to replace what Williams and Carter brought to the offense. That means the offense goes through Howell this fall. This would be an easier undertaking if Howell had any of his four leading receivers from last season.
In addition to being UNC’s top rushers, Williams and Carter were the Tar Heels’ third and fourth leading receivers. Offensive coordinator Phil Longo and the staff like the receivers, but they are unproven.
The defense also needs to take a step this season. The Tar Heels surrendered over 40 points four times last season. Virginia and Virginia Tech were not offensive juggernauts last season either. Tomon Fox returns at the defensive end, but UNC needs another pass rusher.
If the Tar Heels are playing for the conference title, the defense has matured, and Sam Howell is playing like a Heisman finalist.