PASSING THE TORCH The Daily Tar Heel Friday, September 2, 2011 2 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel The Daily Tar Heel Football 2011 Friday, September 2, 2011 3

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dth file photo Kicker Casey Barth, who is only five field goals away from breaking the UNC record, hit a career-high 49-yard field goal against N.C. State in 2010. • TOTES • NUMBERS • T-SHIRTS • SWEATS • Barth ready to TOTES • T-SHIRTS • SWEATS make big kicks The Printery By Michael Lananna extra point tries and, in a game Licensed for UNC Trademark. Assistant Sports Editor against rival N.C. State, set a new FFeaturingeaturing FFeaturingeaturing career high with a 49-yard field LadiesLadies CCutut TTeesees EmbroideryEmbroidery Undermanned and inexperi- goal. enced, the North Carolina special But the kicker’s defining teams squad entered last season moment undoubtedly came dur- gravely weakened by the ongoing ing the 30-27 Music City Bowl NCAA investigation. win against Tennessee. Not only But if Patrick Peterson felt did Barth make the game-tying ! any sympathy at all, he certainly field goal late in the fourth quar- s didn’t show it. ter of that game, but he also deliv- l On opening night, the ered the final blow in the second e 1201 Raleigh Road Louisiana State kick returner round of overtime. e Suite 102 • Chapel Hill, NC 27517 blew through UNC’s depleted “Casey has shown that he can H (919) 942-4764 • (919) 942-7553 forces, chewing up 257 return (make a big kick late in the game), o yards and scoring a touchdown in so I have nothing but confidence GGo Heels! www.theprinterychapelhill.com

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NUMBERS • T-SHIRTS • SWEATS • T-SHIRTS • NUMBERS • TOTES With the performance, him do it,” interim head coach • Peterson exposed a weakness said. “Casey is • that continued to plague UNC one of those guys that I believe we throughout last season. The Tar can count on to do a lot of good Heels’ net average of 40.6 yards things in the kicking game for us.” per kickoff last year placed them Barth has been counted on for second to last in the ACC. much of his Tar Heel career, as A TTarar HHeeleel FavoriteFavorite sincesince 19821982 “Last year, just because of evidenced by the fact that he is five everything that happened, we had field goals away from passing the a lot of young guys out there, and school record of 54 — a record his we were kind of experimenting brother Connor set four years ago. a little bit,” senior place kicker But even with that milestone in Casey Barth said. sight, the kicker is intent on refin- “I think this year with those ing his craft. guys from last year on it and with After making a 54-yard kick off some other guys that couldn’t the upright during training camp, play last year, we’re really going Barth said he’d like to extend to put it together and do some big his field goal range to 50 yards things.” or more. He hopes to do that by Along with Barth, the Tar kicking more aggressively, finish- Heels will return deep snapper ing through the ball for additional Mark House, holder Trase Jones power. and starting C.J. Feagles, “I don’t like missing right,” who as a redshirt freshman aver- Barth said. “I leave my hips open, aged 37.5 yards per punt. and I kind of feel like I hit it Barth, though, is the unit’s weakly. And for me, if I do miss, I Downtown Chapel Hil l cornerstone, and he’s coming off want to miss left and long. I want Mon-Thurs 11:30am-11:30pm what might be his finest season to show I have some legs.” 942-PUM P in Tar Heel blue. Last year, Barth 106 W. Franklin St. Fri & Sat 11:30am-Midnight (Next to He’s Not Here) Sun Noon-11:30pm converted 19 of his 22 field goal Contact the Sports Editor www.yogurtpump.com attempts, succeeded in all 38 at [email protected]. 4 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel UNC o≠ensive linemen roll deep

nervous going in,” Hurst said. Bodine expected to see significant The Tar Heel offensive “But this is what I wanted. I want- playing time. Cooper also praised line boasts experience ed to come in and play early.” freshman Landon Turner for his Cooper said Hurst is one of drive on the field and in the film and depth. his best friends on the team, and room. after playing beside each other all “We do have a lot of depth, By John LaMantia season last year, the two linemen and I think that’s going to Staff Writer form an imposing left side of the be a huge advantage to us,” line. Hurst said. “I know that was As redshirt sophomore Bryn “We are comfortable with one of (coach Sam Pittman’s) Renner prepares to take the reins each other now,” Hurst said. “We big recruiting goals, to build a at this season, he will can do our own thing and learn 10-man offensive line.” lean heavily upon a veteran offen- blitzes and trust one another Most importantly, Renner has sive line that returns four starters completely.” the utmost confidence in the men and has the potential to be one of Senior Cam Holland brings charged with keeping him out of the best in the ACC. experience at the center position, harm’s way. Jonathan Cooper, a 6-foot-3, making 19 starts during his soph- “In these first seven practices, 310-pound left guard, is entering omore and junior seasons. I have never seen an offensive his third year as a starter on the On the right side, juniors line like we have just explode off offensive line. Cooper is the most Travis Bond and Brennan the ball and create holes,” Renner experienced lineman with 23 starts Williams will likely start at right said. “I can’t say enough about in his first two seasons. guard and right tackle, respec- them.” “I feel like all the older guys tively. Typically an under-the-radar on the offensive line are leaders,” While experience is important, part of a team, the offensive line Cooper said. “James Hurst, he’s just there is no substitute for size on has been vocal about their desire a rising sophomore, and he’s one of the offensive line — and North to lead the way on offense. the biggest leaders on the team.” Carolina has plenty of it. The “We want that pressure in order Hurst, a freshman in 2010, saw starting offensive line averages to make our offense go,” Hurst said. playing time in all 13 games at 319 pounds, a size that could be “We’re excited about it, and we’re left tackle and started the final 12 tough for opponents to overcome. glad the people are seeing it now.” games of the season. The Tar Heels will have depth off “The LSU game was the first the bench with senior Carl Gaskins Contact the Sports Editor time I got to play, and I was pretty and redshirt freshman Russell at [email protected].

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Butch Davis bemoaned that Yates perform on the field. at [email protected]. 407927.CRTR 6 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel Follow the Tar Heels at dailytarheel.com Coples grabs defensive line spotlight

By Kelly Parsons “Be aware, that’s Sports Editor what I would say. Be North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples might be one of aware of the Carolina the best NFL prospects in the defense.” nation, a reputation that could limit his production this season Quinton Coples, if opponents gang up to shut him UNC defensive end down. But with junior defensive end nationally. Donte Paige-Moss anchoring the In 2010, Paige-Moss was sec- UNC defensive line right along- ond on the team in tackles for side him, Coples doesn’t mind loss and sacks, and he recorded being the center of attention. a season-high 10 tackles against “It’ll give each other a better North Carolina State. chance to make plays,” Coples And through the pair’s said. “They just can’t double proven excellence, Coples and team me and leave (Paige-Moss) Paige-Moss have set the bar high open or double team him and for the UNC defenders around leave me open. I feel like it’s them. great and helps the defense out “When (Coples) goes down a lot.” inside, he’s very deceptive with The pair of projected first- his hands and his speed,” offen- round draft picks will headline sive lineman Jonathan Cooper the 2011 UNC defensive line, said. “Donte Moss, he’s just which has been one of the most speedy and powerful. I mean, talked-about positions during the those are two tough guys to offseason. defend against. You see them in According to an ESPN.com practice and they make us a lot report, the NCAA returned to better.” Chapel Hill in May to question Between the bookends of Coples about his attendance at an Coples and Paige-Moss, defensive NFL draft party. But just more tackles Jordan Nix and Tydreke than a month later, the NCAA Powell will bring both experience cleared the Tar Heel of any and quickness to this season’s wrongdoing. defensive line. Coples’ innocence was no Powell, also a preseason All- doubt a relief for interim head ACC selection, was one of two coach Everett Withers, who said defensive players to start in all he expects the preseason All- 13 games in 2010. ACC selection to be a leader on Nix, a 2008 transfer from the North Carolina squad this Northeast Oklahoma A&M season — in whatever capacity College, started just two games that may be. last season for the Tar Heels, but “He understands that recorded 18 tackles and recov- whether his numbers increase, ered one fumble. decrease, stay the same, some- The outlook for the North body else on our defensive line is Carolina defensive line is good, going to have some production and expectations for the unit are because of his abilities,” Withers high. said. And to opponents, Coples has “And to me, that shows a but one warning. little bit of maturity about what “Be aware, that’s what I would Quinton Coples is about.” say,” Coples said. “Be aware of the Last season Coples moved Carolina defense. We’re definitely from defensive end to defensive going to come and the objective is tackle and he recorded 59 tackles to punish.” and a team-high 10 sacks — an achievement which ranked in Contact the Sports Editor the top five for defensive tackles at [email protected]. The Daily Tar Heel Football 2011 Friday, September 2, 2011 7 Follow the Tar Heels at Jones to lead squad dailytarheel.com of young receivers By Brandon Moree “He’s a talented guy. offense. Assistant Sports Editor “Coming in, this is going to be We’ve got to find Bryn’s first time at the collegiate New North Carolina starting level,” Jones said. “I know I have quarterback Bryn Renner has ways to get the ball to to come in and make a lot of big seen very limited game action, Dwight.” plays for Bryn to give him great and similarly, many of his poten- confidence so he can come out tial targets don’t have much expe- Everett Withers, every night and do his thing.” rience, either. Interim head football coach Interim head coach Everett With a young receiving corp, Withers knows that Jones’ expe- Renner will likely lean heavily on touchdown. In that game he set rience will be key to the success senior wide receiver Dwight Jones the North Carolina record for of his new quarterback, and the in 2011. the longest play from scrimmage, new coach said he likes the atti- Jones, who received honor- scoring on a play from its own tude that Jones comes to play able mention All-ACC honors in 3-yard line. with. 2010, led North Carolina with Boyd failed to keep up that Surrounding Renner with 62 receptions and 946 yards — a pace for the rest of the season playmaking teammates on the total good for fifth in UNC his- and only had 89 receiving yards field on Saturdays, Withers said, tory. in the other 12 games. is crucial. Also returning to the receiv- The new faces will be looking “Dwight’s a competitor. He’s ing core will be juniors Erik to Jones and the other experi- one of those quiet guys that Highsmith and Jheranie Boyd. enced receivers for leadership this competes,” Withers said. “He’s a Joshua Adams, a redshirt sopho- season, and Jones already has a confident guy. He’s a talented guy. more from Cambridge, Mass., game plan in place. We’ve got to find ways to get the is the only other wide receiver “We just got to come out and ball to Dwight.” on the roster who is not either make big plays every day and But the wide receivers aren’t a transfer or a true or redshirt just move the chains,” Jones the only inexperienced unit for GGOO TTARAR HEELS!HEELS! freshman. said. “That’s our expectation. We the North Carolina squad. Now accepting credit cards. Highsmith had 25 catches know as receivers, we catch the With the departure of tight end last season and scored three balls. 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dth file photo Running back Ryan Houston carries the ball up the field. Houston, who red- shirted last season, will return to Kenan Stadium on Saturday against JMU. Returning running backs ready to make an impact By Mark Thompson Division I football might dwarf Senior Writer prep ball, but Renner seems to think Bernard is prepared for a Ryan Houston could very easily good year. become Bryn Renner’s best friend “I think he’s kind of like (NFL this season. running back) Maurice Jones- Houston, who is expected to Drew,” Renner said. “He’s very lead the North Carolina backfield quick. He makes great jump cuts this season, was withheld from the in the hole. I think that’s what we first five games of the 2010 season need.” until he was cleared in the NCAA’s That’s high praise for a player investigation into the UNC football who hasn’t taken a single handoff at program. Houston then elected to North Carolina. But interim head redshirt to have a full senior year of coach Everett Withers expresses the eligibility. same sentiments about Bernard. The decision followed a “I know as a coaching staff breakout junior season at North we want to take care of him Carolina, in which the 245-pound because we think he’s going to power back rushed for a career- be exceptional,” Withers said. best 713 yards and nine touch- “He epitomizes to me what you downs, leading all UNC rushers in look for in a tailback and what both categories. you want as a student athlete on But don’t expect the same your campus.” Houston to take the field in 2011. Bernard’s willing to do whatever In fact, don’t expect any familiar the team needs. Line him up in the faces in the backfield. backfield or in the slot, he won’t Leading rushers Shaun question it — just as long as he gets Draughn and Johnny White grad- the chance to impact the game. uated, and a new cast of running “I see myself fitting in any- backs has taken their place. where,” Bernard said. “Whatever Redshirt freshman Giovani they feel I need to do to help this Bernard came to North Carolina team win, I’m going to do it.” in 2010 as the No. 12-ranked run- Another player who has already ning back in the nation by Rivals. tried to fit in a few other positions com, but he didn’t play a down of is A.J. Blue. Blue was a former football after he tore his ACL on the quarterback with whom the Tar third day of fall practice. Heels attempted to run a Wildcat “It’s a blessing just to be able offense in 2009. to come back out here and to In some respects, each of know that I’m 100 percent and UNC’s backfield options has to be able to show everybody struggled to consistently contrib- that I’m 100 percent. And to ute in the past. Two are returning show everybody that I am bet- from a missed season, and Blue ter than I was in high school,” is looking to add what he can in a Bernard said. new position. In high school Bernard rushed But all three are hungry. for 1,528 yards with 18 touch- downs on 160 carries as a junior — Contact the Sports Editor nearly 10 yards per carry. at [email protected]. The Daily Tar Heel Football 2011 Friday, September 2, 2011 9 10 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel The Daily Tar Heel Football 2011 Friday, September 2, 2011 11 2011 football schedule DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME Sept. 3 vs. James Madison Chapel Hill, N.C. 3:30 PM Sept. 10 vs. Rutgers Chapel Hill, N.C. 12:30 PM Sept. 17 vs. Virginia Chapel Hill, N.C. 3:30 PM Sept. 24 at Atlanta, Ga. TBA Oct. 1 at East Carolina Greenville, N.C. 8:00 PM Oct. 8 vs. Louisville Chapel Hill, N.C. TBA Oct. 15 vs. Miami Chapel Hill, N.C. TBA Oct. 22 at Clemson Clemson, S.C. TBA Oct. 29 vs. Wake Forest Chapel Hill, N.C. TBA Nov. 5 at NC State Raleigh, N.C. TBA Nov. 17 at Blacksburg, Va. 8:00 p.m. ET Nov. 26 vs. Duke Chapel Hill, N.C. TBA

Withers and Renner go into 2011 with new leadership roles and big shoes to fill. By Kelly Parsons Sports Editor

hen Bryn Renner learned that coach had been fired, the quarter- back had to let it all sink in a little bit. Even though Renner — whose father coachesW Davis’ son Drew at East Chapel Hill High — had yet to start a football game at North Carolina, he and Davis shared a close bond. But while it was tough to see Davis go, Renner wasn’t going to let anything shake his focus less than six weeks away from kickoff. This was his year. So when Everett Withers was promoted to interim head football coach just days after Davis’ dismissal, Renner paid him a visit. Both Renner and Withers had the tall task before them of following in the footsteps of great success, but Renner wanted to let his new coach know they were in this together. “I just went to his office and said ‘We’re ready to get this thing going,’” Renner said. “I let everything kind dth file photo dth/ kelly parsons of settle down, and I just wanted to get back to playing dth file photo Renner hands off the ball at practice. The redshirt sophomore played backup quarter- Everett Withers speaks to the media at a press conference on Monday. At the conference, football. Bryn Renner clutches the football at practice. The quarterback has attempted just two passes in games for North Carolina. back to T.J. Yates in 2010 and will take his first snap as a starter against James Madison. Withers announced the team captains and talked about Saturday’s game against JMU. “I think that’s what the team wanted to do, so I just wanted to let him know we had his back and whatever he needed, I was going to be there for him.” during his season as backup quarterback, he relished “I want those guys to know me a little Davis had been known as a player’s coach, and many that read ‘Butch Davis, head football coach.’ every practice rep he could get. of the North Carolina football team members were sad But from Renner, there was no utterance about his A leader emerges And Renner’s determination — even when nothing bit better on the other side.” to see him go. former coach. but his own growth was on the line — quickly caught Everett Withers, Davis brought in several top recruiting classes That was all behind him. On Dec. 30, 2010, four-year starting quarterback Withers’ eye. during his four-year career at UNC, and the veteran Instead, Renner’s Carolina blue eyes lit up as he talk- T.J. Yates took his last snap as a Tar Heel in North “I used to challenge Bryn every day when I was the Interim head football coach coach helped put North Carolina football back on the ed about taking his first snap as a starting quarterback. Carolina’s 30-27 overtime win against Tennessee in the defensive coordinator to go down there and light us map. Saturday’s game against James Madison will be a big Music City Bowl. up on the scout team,” Withers said. “Some of those After spending three seasons as defensive coordinator But much to safety Matt Merletti’s delight — and day for Renner, as he will finally get the opportunity to For the Tar Heels, the first bowl win in nine years guys would really, truly get upset with him because he for UNC, the opportunity for Withers to become a colle- surprise — the coaching transition was much smoother accomplish what he came to Chapel Hill to do. was a reason for celebration. But for Renner, it was also would tear us up in practice. But he made us better. giate head coach fell in his lap when he was promoted to than he expected. But while Renner thinks about hitting his own mile- his cue to get back to work. “From that point, when I first had my association fill the interim position. “He obviously has a way bigger role than he’s used to, stone, the selfless new leader knows it’s not just his spe- He had spent his first two seasons at North Carolina in with Bryn, I said, ‘This is a special guy right here.’” With just six weeks to spare until kickoff, Withers and he’s done a much better job than I think anybody cial day — it’s theirs. the shadow of Yates’ record-breaking college career. But knew he had a lot to learn. And the defensive-minded anticipated,” Merletti said. “It’s going to be (Withers’) first game as a head on that December night, the torch was passed. A last-minute change coach knew just where to start. “It’s like he’s always been the coach. With every- coach, and my first game as a starting quarterback,” “I sent a text (to the team) just saying that we’re “I spend a lot of time with (the offense), trying to thing that happened a few weeks ago, with coach Renner said. “We’ve always gotten along well since I’ve going to keep this going, and we’re going to do bigger Like Renner, Everett Withers had never been “the” get to know them and also encouraging them,” Withers Davis leaving, nobody’s even thinking about that. been recruited here, and I think we just got closer just things than the Music City Bowl,” Renner said. “I sent it guy. said. “I’ve been on that other side for so long, that I feel Everybody’s just focused on the game.” because we’re both in the same situation and looking to all the underclassmen and had a little meeting with For 24 years, the former Appalachian State defen- comfortable now with what’s going on on the defense. forward to Saturday. them, just trying to get their mind right for this upcom- sive back had served in a variety of different coaching I want those guys to know me a little bit better on the In this together “I know he’s chomping at the bit for Saturday to kick ing season.” roles for multiple college and professional football other side.” off, and I know I am, too.” dth/allison russell Renner might only have two pass-attempts to his teams, but he always had someone on the squads to But beyond learning the X’s and O’s, Withers faced As Renner took questions from reporters Monday Everett Withers spent three years as North Carolina’s name, but to those around him, he’s a seasoned veteran. answer to. the task of uniting a team that had just been blindsided after the first game-week press conference of the sea- Contact the Sports Editor defensive coordinator before being promoted to interim Renner didn’t get on the game field very often, but On July 28, all of that changed. by change. son, he sat comfortably on a chair in front of a plaque at [email protected]. head coach in July. Withers, who played defensive back at Appalachian State, is in his 24th season of coaching. 12 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel Tigers look to overcome last UNC secondary a≠ected by year’s losing season in 2011 o≠season shake-up By Chris Moore expect him to lead.” By Matt Cox and led the Tigers to the 2009 Thompson is one of five return- Staff Writer Smith worked on the practice Staff Writer Atlantic Division title. ing starters for a Clemson defense squad to make the transition back But so far, he has failed to that led the ACC in scoring defense In many ways, the North to the games easier. Despite bringing in a third overcome Clemson’s reputation as last season. But in 2011, the Tigers Carolina offseason has been one “I’ve seen a lot of football, been consecutive highly touted recruit- a perennial underachiever. have the tall task of replacing last of turmoil. in a lot of situations, so that’s defi- ing class, Clemson coach Dabo “We hear it, but we’re not year’s ACC Defensive Player of the And unfortunately for the Tar nitely helped a lot,” Smith said. Swinney’s job depends on improv- focused on that inside,” said defen- Year Da’Quan Bowers and leading Heels, it affected a position that “Also, because I was doing scout ing last year’s 6-7 record — the sive lineman Brandon Thompson tackler DeAndre McDaniel. could least afford adversity. team for the whole year, I wasn’t school’s first losing season since about the pressure on Swinney. Tony Steward, the nation’s top- North Carolina graduated three just sitting out and completely off 1998. “We’re just focused on being rated linebacker in the class of 2011, senior starters from last year’s the field.” Since taking over halfway great players, being dominant will attempt to help fill that void. secondary, leaving just three play- Sophomore Tre Boston, who through the 2008 season, Swinney players, and if we do that right... “We brought in a strong fresh- ers — Jabari Price, Matt Merletti was moved from cornerback to has compiled a 19-15 overall record it’s all going to fall in line.” man linebacker corps and I feel and Charles Brown — with signif- safety this offseason, has slid back like all of them are going to come icant playing time in the defensive to cornerback to fill the injured together with the veterans,” backfield. Price’s slot. Thompson said. “I’m looking Cornerback Mywan Jackson, a Merletti, a proven special teams forward to them getting on the promising freshman last year, left player for the Tar Heels, will start field.” the program in early August. at safety to begin the season. The offense returns eight start- Price, a projected starter at With so many shake-ups, the ers from the 2010 season, but will cornerback, injured his hand in unit has had to work hard to get rely on inexperienced sophomore preseason practice and will likely ready for the start of the season. Tajh Boyd to replace Kyle Parker miss at least six weeks of action. “The biggest thing that we’ve at quarterback. But despite the question marks actually seen improvement in Swinney hired offensive coordi- that surround the secondary, ourselves is just the chemistry,” nator Chad Morris, who coached coach Everett Withers said the Smith said. “Just getting back into with Auburn’s Gus Malzahn at corps has improved tremendously the groove of things and keeping Tulsa, to implement a style similar in a short time. chemistry and communication to that of Auburn’s. “Some of those guys were with the younger guys.” “I felt like this offense was going thrown into the mix,” Withers said. But despite the confidence to really feature the skill set of “I think one thing that’s evident Smith and Withers have displayed Boyd,” Swinney said. “I want to out in practice so far is that we’re in the secondary, results still need be one of the top offenses in the going to be a good secondary.” to come on the field. country. I felt like this was going to The unit will look to seniors All four starters — Brown, allow us to become that.” Brown and safety Jonathan Smith Smith, Merletti and Boston — This season, Boyd will throw to be leaders for the secondary. have just nine combined intercep- to last season’s leading receiver Brown, who sat out all of last tions. But facing a Tar Heel offense DeAndre Hopkins and wide year and will sit out the first game that should be proficient in passing receiver Jaron Brown, who had of the 2011 season, brings the this year will undoubtedly help the more than 100 receiving yards most experience as well as six secondary prepare for game day. and a touchdown against UNC career interceptions to the field. “We’ve got a good offensive   last season. Smith, who was also sidelined passing system,” Withers said. The arrival of two top-five for the entire 2010 season, has “And if we can do well versus receivers in the 2011 recruiting embraced his chance to get back those offensive passes in practice, class gives Boyd plenty of options in on the field and be a positive role then I think we’ve got a chance to the passing game. model for younger defensive backs. be really good on Saturdays.” “He’s right now probably play- Contact the Sports Editor ing as good as anybody in the Contact the Sports Editor at [email protected]. secondary,” Withers said. “And we at [email protected].

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By Brandon Moree Taking the reins and the snaps NFL draft pick Andrew Luck was ence, and then D.J. (Green) being he pushes his team to come from Assistant Sports Editor for the Wolfpack this season will fourth on that list. as good of an athlete as he is, I behind the shadows of Wilson be Mike Glennon, a 6-foot-6-inch, “We knew coming out of high think we’re going to be just fine and Irving and develop their own In his junior season, Russell 225-pound graduate student from school he was really a talented for another year.” identity behind Glennon. Wilson led N.C. State to an 8-4 Centreville, Va. Glennon has been individual,” O’Brien said. “He After earning his 100th career (5-3 in the ACC) season, an out- the backup quarterback since he can make every throw on the win in the Champs Sports bowl, Contact the Sports Editor ing that was strong enough to was redshirted in 2008, but that’s football field, and of all the guys O’Brien will have his hands full as at [email protected]. land the Wolfpack in the Champs no knock on Glennon’s talent. we’ve coached at BC —of which Sports Bowl in Orlando, Fla. “He’s going to be awesome,” four have started in the NFL — The Wolfpack beat West redshirt senior tight end George he has as much talent as any of Virginia 23-7 to win their first Bryan said. them.” bowl game since 2005, due large- “I think everybody’s going to be Wilson wasn’t the only impact TAR HEELS ly to Wilson’s 275 passing yards really surprised and really pleased player to leave a void in the ros- and two touchdowns. about how good he is. I can just ter this season, as linebacker The win put N.C. State in the tell when he’s throwing the ball, Nate Irving graduated and was final top-25 rankings for the first the way he runs offense, the way selected in the third round of this time since 2002. he knows defenses. I just know year’s NFL draft by the Denver The quarterback turned sec- he’s going to be successful.” Broncos. Last season Irving led ROCK! ond baseman also played minor O’Brien knows a little some- the Wolfpack in sacks. league baseball with the single-A thing about , and he “Nate was a big playmaker, and Mill House bleeds blue. Mill House is owned and Asheville Tourists. But as Wilson knew what he was getting with he always found himself in the operated by a UNC almuni, Ram’s Club Member and tried to split time between sports, Glennon even before the young right place, which made him a head coach Tom O’Brien decided signal caller came to N.C. State’s good player,” redshirt senior line- an avid supporter of UNC Athletics. Look for our ads to make a change. campus. backer Audie Cole said. in the game programs of Football, BBall, Baseball, In April, O’Brien released As a senior, Rivals.com ranked “We probably wouldn’t have Soccer and many Olympic sports. Go Heels! Wilson from N.C. State, and the Glennon as the third-best quar- been as good last year without former Wolfpack quarterback will terback in the nation. Stanford Nate. But I think this year with play at Wisconsin this season. quarterback and potential top Terrell (Manning) and my experi- Rutgers will lean on Sales, Rentals and Management For more information call 968-7226 top-rated recruit for revival or go to www.millhouseproperties.com

Six years ago, in his fifth season back in 2011 according to both quarterback Chas Dodd and allow as head coach at Rutgers, Greg ESPN and Scout.com, making him to connect with a stable of Schiano convinced a local high him the highest-ranked recruit in talented wideouts, led by juniors school tailback to stay at home Rutgers history. Mark Harrison and Mohamed and help reverse the fortunes of That kind of forward momen- Sanu. Rutgers football, a program look- tum might be just the boost The pair combined for nearly ing for its first winning season in required to transform a rather 1,250 yards and 11 touchdowns 12 years. vanilla Scarlet Knight offense last year and will welcome the Three seasons, three bowl into something truly potent in return of senior Tim Wright, M exican R estaurant games and nearly 5000 rushing 2011. who was slated to start a year ago yards later, that tailback — Ray Schiano has yet to anoint before suffering a season-ending Rice — had taken the Scarlet Huggins the starting tailback for knee injury. Knights from the Big East out- the Scarlet Knights’ season open- A higher-powered offense house to the league penthouse er against North Carolina Central may be needed in order to com- Serving the Triangle’s before he departed for the NFL — a week before Rutgers heads pensate for the Scarlet Knights’ BEST MEXICAN CUISINE in 2007, entrenching the pro- to Chapel Hill — but Schiano has defense, which must replace four gram as an annual BCS con- made it clear that the freshman is of its top six tacklers. for 15 YEARS! tender. definitely in the running for the Huggins reminded the defense But after a 4-8 season in starting job. just how far it must come in a 2010, and just four conference “I think it’s gonna be a kind recent intrasquad scrimmage, wins in the past two seasons, of play-it-by-ear-type situation,” torching the first-teamers for 168 Schiano finds himself counting Schiano told ESPN.com. yards. WEEKLY DRINK on another homegrown halfback “Savon’s definitely going to And though critical of his unit’s in 2011. play. I don’t know -- depending performance, middle linebacker SPECIALS: Rutgers faithful have already on what we run the first play of Steve Beauharnais was able to begun the comparisons between the game, will it be Savon, or will point to at least one bright spot Rice and freshman tailback Savon it be De’Antwan Williams, or from Huggins’ big day. Mon & Tues: $1.99 Margaritas Huggins, hoping the latter can even (redshirt freshman) Jawan “Obviously, it’s not good when Wed: All 16oz Draft $1.99 resurrect a rushing attack that Jamison, I don’t know how that’s he does it against us,” Beauharnais mustered just 1,200 yards all last gonna go.” told the Newark Star-Ledger. “On Thurs: All 32oz Draft $3.50 season, good for 11th worst in In new offensive coordinator the good side, he’s on our team.” Division I. Frank Cignetti’s pro-style system, 237 S. Elliott Rd. Chapel Hill (Village Plaza, near ABC Store) Huggins was the nation’s a consistent rushing attack should From staff and wire reports 919.969.8750 www.MonterreyChapelHill.com fourth-best high school running take some pressure off sophomore Compiled by Kevin Minogue 14 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel Follow the Tar Heels at Blue Devils ready to dailytarheel.com end postseason drought

By Jonathan LaRowe Staff Writer

Duke hasn’t qualified for a bowl game since 1994 — the longest postseason drought in the ACC. But don’t tell that to senior safety Matt Daniels. “Matt Daniels expects a cham- pionship, just like the rest of the Duke community should expect, just like the rest of my teammates should expect,” Daniels said. But before any talk of contend- ing for a championship, Duke must improve upon a defense that ranked 108th overall in the country in points Catch the vibe at the new allowed per game. “The defense was last in a lot of dth file photo aloft chapel hill hotel categories, and we’re just trying to Former UNC wide receiver Hakeem Nicks scores a touchdown against find ways where we can improve Duke in Durham in 2008. Last season, UNC beat the Blue Devils 24-19. and that,” Daniels said. “I’m really excited wxyz lounge about this defense. We have a lot of only one win in 2007, Cutcliffe won preached about the importance of talent out there on the field.” four and five games respectively in competition within his team. Rates are Style at a Steal • Shuttle Service available While the defense still has a lot 2008 and 2009 before falling to “Old fashioned competition is of work to do, the offense was much only three wins last year. what makes any business better,” (919) 932-7772 • www.aloftchapelhill.com more respectable in 2010. The Duke But Cutcliffe knows that he has he said. passing attack finished 22nd in the a quarterback that is capable of big With five of the last six games 1001 South Hamilton Rd. country in passing yards per game things. against UNC being decided by Chapel Hill, NC 27517 last season. “He has got to utilize his ath- one score or less, Duke may But the running game was far leticism and do the things he was be poised to end a seven-year behind, ranking only 104th in doing the last part of the year, and drought against the Tar Heels. rushing yards per game. he’s got the chance to be a great But if the Blue Devils are going “We didn’t run the ball as effec- player,” Cutcliffe said. “Not a good to qualify for a bowl game and tively as we wanted to,” quarterback player, but a great player.” contend for a championship, it will Sean Renfree said. “But the running In his first year as the starter, most likely be as an underdog. game will certainly go up and as the Renfree threw for 3,131 yards and And that is a role that the Blue running game goes up, I think the 14 touchdowns. But he also threw Devils are happy to take on. passing game will as well.” 17 interceptions. “This year’s our year to be that For the first time since he took Renfree admits that he has to Cinderella team,” Daniels said. over as head coach in Dec. 2007, take better care of the football. “You know that team that no one David Cutcliffe did not improve “I can make smarter decisions, expects to do anything big. I think upon his team’s win total from the that’s going to help,” Renfree said. this year is ours.” 919-929-0246 previous year. “You don’t have to think you can UNC Campus • Carrboro After taking the reins from former win games on every single drive.” Contact the Sports Editor 412 E. Main Carrboro head coach Ted Roof, who managed During ACC media day, Cutcliffe at [email protected].

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407943.CRTR The Daily Tar Heel Football 2011 Friday, September 2, 2011 15 ECU seeks improved season with McNeill WWomen’s omen’’s ClothingCllotthiing & AccessoriesAccessorriies

Factors are stacking in East Carolina’s favor as the team moves into a far different role from the one it played just a year ago. At the beginning of the 2010 season, the ECU football program faced several key changes. After serving as an assistant coach at Texas Tech for a decade, ECU alumnus Ruffin McNeill accepted his first head coaching position at his alma mater. Eleven of the 20 football coach- es, including McNeill, were new to East Carolina in 2010, and the Pirates lost more letterman play- dth file photo ers at the end of the 2009 season East Carolina defenders attempt to stop a Tar Heel football player at than any other college FBS team Kenan Stadium. In 2010, ECU lost to North Carolina 42-17 in Chapel Hill. in the country. And after posting a 6-6 regu- second half of last season’s game the ball up and down the field,” lar season record in 2010 and and the Tar Heels cruised to a linebacker Justin Dixon told the losing to Mayland 51-20 in the 42-17 win. Fayetteville Observer. Military Bowl, the Pirates felt For the Pirates, pulling out “If we can do that, then we the loss of their graduated play- a win in the Oct. 1 game would could put two or three more wins makers. serve as a measure of how far on the board. That would put us But despite disappointments, they’ve come in just one year. right up there in the conference McNeill and his squad tried to But the ultimate goal is still a race.” 919.537.8264 Mon-Sat 10-7 P M take away positives from a lack- Conference USA title. 1112 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27517 Sun 12-5 P M Hwy 54, near Glen Lennox. luster season. “We just have to give (the From staff and wire reports www.shophadleyemerson.com Located on bus route S. “We were able to do some offense) the chance to move Compiled by Marilyn Payne 407869.CRTR things that were overlooked at times,” McNeill said at ECU’s media day. “To be one of two first- year staffs in the country to win five or more conference games was a third positive from a year ago.” Hours: Some of the failures from the 2010 season caused McNeill and his coaching staff to move from Come and see a 4-3 defensive lineup to a 3-4 our new construction! scheme. McNeill and his staff are 1 & 2 BEDROOMS well-versed in the 3-4 system. But perhaps more important than the advantage ECU looks to gain from the defensive switch is the presence of a more expe- rienced coaching staff on the sideline. “One of the things that helps is keeping your staff together,” McNeill told ECUPirates.com. “Continuity with the coaching staff is key. If you look at some of the best programs in the country, they’ve kept their staffs intact. We were very fortunate to keep our staff together this year.” The continuity in staff and a returning starting quarterback are two advantages the Pirates will have against North Carolina when the two play this year. North Carolina outscored East Carolina by 25 points in the 16 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel Miami bogged down by ineligibility By Ryan Davis the Hurricanes will start its 2011 one game and have to pay back Miami’s skill positions. Top 2010 tion of his own, Morris brought Staff Writer campaign without key players. benefits before becoming eligible receiver Leonard Hankerson and life to a stagnant Miami offense, The NCAA announced Tuesday again. running back Damien Berry must completing 22 of his 33 passes for The and that eight players, including When Miami’s ineligible play- be replaced, and senior quarter- 282 yards and two scores. its football program may be under quarterback Jacory Harris and ers return to the the field, the back Jacory Harris has been bat- Miami’s defense could return up more scrutiny at the moment than second-team All-ACC safety Ray- Hurricanes will return six offensive tling sophomore Stephen Morris to seven starters to a stingy group any other team in the nation, and Ray Armstrong, will miss at least starters from last season’s 7-6 cam- throughout the summer for the that allowed only 150.5 passing paign. starting job. yards per game last season. It’s The majority of those returners Harris, who will miss just one a unit that boasts two preseason make up the Hurricanes’ offen- game due to ineligiblity, was All-ACC selections of its own in sive line — a position in which disappointing as often as he was linebacker Sean Spence and safety Miami returns four of five starters brilliant over the course of his Ray-Ray Armstrong. pure barre from last season, including pre- junior campaign, throwing more Armstrong will miss six games season All-ACC selections center interceptions (15) than touch- due to ineligibility, while Spence lliftift • tonetone • burnburn Tyler Horn and guard Brandon downs (14). will miss just one. www.purebarre.com Washington. Morris, on the other hand, With a solid defense in place, At the ACC Football Kickoff was impressive while starting the preparing a successful starting in Pinehurst, Horn said there’s final four regular season games quarterback and replacing 2010 no question that new coach Al for the Hurricanes — earning a veterans will be at the top of Golden is bringing a sense of 125.01 quarterback efficiency rat- Golden’s to-do list. urgency back to Miami. ing and compiling 1,240 passing It’s a tall task, but there are “Fans can expect a new energy,” yards. plenty of talented players in Horn said. “I know you hear that After Notre Dame defenders Coral Gables ready to step up all the time, but you can expect a intercepted three of Harris’ first and fill the void. The only ques- new energy and players who are seven pass attempts in the 2010 tion for Miami is whether or not excited to play for the University Sun Bowl, he was replaced by they will. of Miami and win games.” Morris, who impressed Miami The question marks start to fans yet again. Contact the Sports Editor show up when you zoom out to Although he threw an intercep- at [email protected].

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Football 2011 is published by the DTH Media Corp., a nonprofit North Carolina corporation. Advertisers should call 962-1163 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday . Editorial questions should be directed to 962-0245. Office and mail: 151 E. Rosemary St., Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Campus Mail: CB# 1893 Cover photo: DTH File Cover design: Ariana Rodriguez-Gitler

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Fax: 919-960-5888 • Phone: 919-918-7888 Located in University Mall 201 S. Estes Drive • Chapel Hill, NC 27514 www.redbowlchapelhill.com 18 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel Virginia Tech looks to repeat ACC title run By Pace Sagester is also the only program in the Ryan Williams bolted for the NFL. Staff Writer country to win at least ten games Defensively, Virginia Tech in each of the past seven seasons. returns a meager five start- Since joining the ACC in 2004, This season, however, coach ers from last season’s ACC Virginia Tech has won the confer- Frank Beamer will debut a very Championship team. With so ence championship four times, different Virginia Tech squad. much turnover for the defending including three of the last four. The 2011 edition of the Hokies champions, it seems 2011 might The Hokies have appeared in will be without their entire start- be the year a team can steal the four of the six ACC title games, ing backfield from a year ago, as Hokies’ crown. twice as many as any other school quarterback Tyrod Taylor and “The league is getting stronger in the conference. Virginia Tech running backs Darren Evans and every year,” Beamer said. “The programs are all getting better. dth file/allison russell You have to be good but you also A UNC defender tackles a Virginia Tech player. UNC lost to the Hokies have to be lucky.” 26-10 in Chapel Hill in 2010, and the Hokies went on to win the ACC title. Luckily for Virginia Tech, red- shirt sophomore Logan Thomas and junior David Wilson are poised to fill the void in the backfield. London promotes Thomas is faced with the monu- mental task of filling Taylor’s shoes at quarterback. The two are very different players, as Thomas is ‘winning attitude’ much more of a pocket passer than Taylor and stands five inches taller. By Michael Lananna The Cavaliers finished third in the But for Thomas, the compari- Assistant Sports Editor ACC in passing offense with 265.5 sons to Taylor are going to be hard yards per game, and their leading to avoid. For Virginia, 2010 was sup- receiver, senior Kris Byrd, remains “There is no doubt that some of posed to be a year of transition. in the fold. Tyrod has rubbed off on Logan,” On paper, though, very little actu- In total Virginia will return senior wide receiver Danny Coale ally changed. 17 starters, including senior cor- said. “He definitely learned some Under new coach Mike London, nerback Chase Minnifield — an things, but I think he is a natural the Cavaliers once again finished at ACC Preseason Team selection. born quarterback. He takes a lot the bottom of the Coastal Division, Minnifield ranked fifth in the of pride in his position.” going 4-8 (1-7 in the ACC). nation with six interceptions and Like Thomas, Wilson will also But London, who compiled a was a bright spot for a defense have to outrun the shadow of his 24-5 record during his two years as that at times struggled to keep predecessors, as Evans ran for over Richmond’s head coach, remains points off the board. 1,000 yards in 2008 and Williams committed to injecting life into the While much of the starting ran for over 1,500 yards in 2009. struggling football program. lineup will be returning on both Wilson showed glimpses of “I talk about winning and the sides of the ball, London said he greatness as the third string back attitude of winning,” London wouldn’t hesitate to dip into his in 2010, running for five touch- said. “The only way you develop newest recruiting class. downs with limited touches. an attitude of winning is winning “It’s hard from the line posi- Defensively, the Hokies will games … and that’s a mindset and tion because it’s an issue of being have to battle back from an development that’s been missing strong enough and things like uncharacteristically weak season for a while.” that,” London said. in 2010. Virginia Tech ranked As the Cavaliers enter the 2011 “But there’s a lot of young men 52nd in total defense a year ago. season, they’ll have to find a way on this team of skill position that “Last year we were 52nd,” to replace the 2,799 passing yards can run, catch, do things with preseason All-ACC safety Eddie and 14 touchdowns senior quar- the ball, so we’re looking to see if Whitley said. “I don’t even want terback Marc Verica supplied a we can take advantage of that. If to say the number again. That was year ago. they’re ready, then we’re ready.” outrageously high. We need to do Sophomore quarterbacks Ross UVa. will get their first taste better.” Metheny and Michael Rocco were of ACC action in Chapel Hill on Led by All-American corner- the frontrunners to snag the start- Sept. 17, and if the team hopes to back Jayron Hosley, who led the ing spot, and London announced improve on last season’s 1-7 con- nation with nine interceptions last Monday that Rocco will start ference performance, it’ll need to season, Beamer will try to right the Virginia’s first game against play cleaner games. ship on defense in his twenty-fifth William & Mary. Virginia averaged the third season at Virginia Tech. “You don’t want it to carry on most penalty yards per game in Despite Virginia Tech’s inex- and linger because you can’t give the NCAA last season, drawing 98 perience on both sides of the ball, four guys or three guys the reps flags. Avoiding penalties will be the Hokies are confident the road to try and find out who number a key issue for London as he tries to the ACC title still runs through one is,” London said. “We’re going to lead a football renaissance in Blacksburg. to find out early who one and two Charlottesville. are.” Contact the Sports Editor Rocco will be leading an aerial Contact the Sports Editor at [email protected]. attack that was potent a year ago. at [email protected]. The Daily Tar Heel Football 2011 Friday, September 2, 2011 19 Sports Desk sTAff Follow the Tar Heels at Kelly Parsons dailytarheel.com DTH SPORTS EDITOR

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Wake Forest Following a lackluster 2010 season in which his team fin- ished 3-9 with just one win in ACC play, Jim Grobe and Wake Forest are ready to put last season in the rearview mirror. With a young, albeit expe- rienced, offense in Winston- Salem, the turnaround will start and end with the defense.

Louisville Complacency won’t cut it for Louisville this season. Coach Charlie Strong, who is in his second year at Louisville, refuses to let his team relax despite last year’s unexpected 7-6 record and bowl win. And being ranked seventh in the eight-team Big East Conference, there’s a lot to prove for the young squad led by only 16 seniors. 20 Friday, September 2, 2011 Football 2011 The Daily Tar Heel THINK YOU KNOW GRANVILLE TOWERS? THINK AGAIN! It's a new day at Granville Towers. We recently renovated our rooms, lobbies and dining room and added new amenities that improve student life. Granville Towers residents enjoy multiple single room options, flexible meal plans, parking pass availability, and amenities you won't find elsewhere on or off campus.

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