UNC has a group of freshmen and transfers who are changing the game.
In this day and age of football, transfers are going to make an impact. Combine that with freshmen who already look ready, and it brings a storm of success. Any time a team can mesh its seasoned players with guys who just joined, it is a good sign. Is the culture changing in Chapel Hill?
Transfers
Alijah Huzzie: An FCS All-American, Huzzie has been great for UNC. He is playing the “star” role and has been great in the pass game. It has been rare that anyone caught a pass on Huzzie, and he continues to grade well.
Amari Gainer: The Florida State transfer is playing UNC’s “jack” position. He has made plays, most notably against South Carolina. Gainer has put pressure on the quarterbacks when needed and sacked Spencer Rattler twice.
Nate McCollum: In his first full game with North Carolina, McCollum won ACC Receiver of the Week. He is as advertised, and it is not surprising to see why he was thought to be such a good addition. Luckily for UNC, we will only see more of him from here on out.
Armani Chatman: Seeing his most time against Minnesota, Chatman came up big. The Virginia Tech transfer played well in coverage, deflecting three passes and getting an interception. We should see him more in the coming games.
Freshmen
Beau Atkinson: Atkinson is a redshirt freshman. In game, he has made big tackles, set the edge well, and continues to flash his ability. Atkinson will be a big piece of the Tar Heels future.
Amare Campbell: A true freshman, Campbell has been pushed into games due to North Carolina’s lack of linebacker depth. He has held his own and shown up in his playing time.
Tayon Holloway: Holloway was also a redshirt last season, so he is just now really playing for the Tar Heels. After an injury to DeAndre Boykins, Holloway was forced to start immediately, and eligibility-wise, he is just a freshman. He has done well in coverage and sticking to his assignment. This early experience will only make him better in the future.
These guys have contributed to North Carolina’s 3 and 0 start in a big way.
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