UNC football vs. West Virginia in Duke’s Mayo Bowl: Score prediction, scouting report

UNC football started the 2023 season with a statement win against South Carolina in Charlotte.

The Tar Heels (8-4) will end the year against West Virginia (8-4) in Charlotte on Wednesday, Dec. 27 (5:30 p.m., ESPN), aiming to salvage their season with another positive experience at Bank of America Stadium.

It’ll be the third meeting between UNC and the Mountaineers. Both of the previous games were in the postseason, with the Heels winning the 1996 Gator Bowl and West Virginia earning a win in Charlotte in 2008.

Here are some other things to know and a score prediction for the latest meeting between the Tar Heels and Mountaineers.

In mid-December, UNC announced that at least nine Tar Heels won’t be playing in the bowl game. That group includes quarterback Drake Maye, who announced his plans to enter the 2024 NFL Draft.

That sets up redshirt freshman Conner Harrell to be the Tar Heels’ starter against West Virginia. Harrell appeared in three games, most notably in the second half of UNC’s 59-7 win against FCS program Campbell. In relief of Maye, Harrell went 4-for-4 with 71 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 61 yards and a TD.

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Despite a lackluster finish in the regular season, it wasn’t all bad for the Tar Heels. Sophomore running back Omarion Hampton emerged as a star and All-American as one of the ACC’s premier players. Hampton is fourth among FBS backs in rushing yards (1,442) and yards per game (120.2). He also has 15 touchdowns. If UNC is going to end its bowl skid, Hampton has to be great against the Mountaineers.

Quarterback Garrett…


Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/unc-football-vs-west-virginia-090507124.html

Author : The Fayetteville Observer

Publish date : 2023-12-26 09:05:07

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