Last season, the North Carolina football team cruised to a 48-34 win against Virginia Tech in Kenan Stadium, but this year’s meeting will likely be a bit different.
Not only will the Tar Heels travel to Blacksburg, but they’ll also be going up against the No.4 defense in country — one that held East Carolina and Georgia Tech to 10 points apiece.
“I think it was a hot day here, we got the tempo going, and were able to establish a run game, create a couple explosive passes and just got momentum rolling in our favor,” offensive coordinator Blake Anderson said. “This is a different team and I think they’re better on defense than they were a year ago.”
The most glaring obstacle facing UNC in this year’s meeting? A Virginia Tech secondary that boasts a host of future NFL picks, including cornerback brothers Kendall and Kyle Fuller.
“There the best secondary we’ll have played,” Anderson said. “They’ve got three or four guys that will play in the NFL. So you know what you’re up against. But I do believe you have to test them as well.
“You have to make them make plays. We’ve got some length outside — guys that will elevate and go get the ball.”
Last season, sophomore wide receiver Quinshad Davis tested Kyle Fuller and emerged from the matchup with five catches and a game-high 65 yards.
“Last year Quinshad had a breakout game against Fuller and I know he’s looking forward to the challenge and so are we,” wide receivers coach Gunter Brewer said.
Now, Kyle Fuller will be joined with his freshman brother Kendall, who’s started every game, and against Marshall last week, recorded an interception to go with seven tackles.
