The Daily Tar Heel
Printing news. Raising hell. Since 1893.
Thursday, March 28, 2024 Newsletters Latest print issue

We keep you informed.

Help us keep going. Donate Today.
The Daily Tar Heel

Questions Exist in Backfield

Four legitimate candidates -- all of whom have played other positions -- vie for the starting fullback job, while two sophomores battle for the tailback spot.

Adding to the confusion, UNC's leading rusher in 2000, tailback Brandon Russell, has moved to receiver.

Moreover, new offensive coordinator Gary Tranquill is adding a more motion-oriented offensive scheme.

But in the midst of this uncertainty, UNC coach John Bunting feels confident that his new-fangled unit can accomplish its most basic goal: to gain yards.

"I think that we have excellent runners," Bunting said. "We should be able to run the ball this year."

Running the ball is something that the Tar Heels have not been able to do successfully in the past few years. Last season, no UNC ball carrier averaged more than 47 yards per game, and the team averaged only 148.5 as a unit.

Tailbacks Willie Parker and Andr

To get the day's news and headlines in your inbox each morning, sign up for our email newsletters.