Tar Heels’ Ground Game Showing Real Progress
After a slow start to the season, North Carolina’s rushing attack is finally beginning to find its rhythm. In the latest chapter of their rivalry at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill, the Tar Heels fell to Virginia 17–16 in overtime. Despite the loss, UNC’s ground game delivered 145 yards on 39 carries — an average of about 3.7 yards per rush. Those numbers may not stand out, but they mark a clear improvement from earlier performances and offer optimism for what coach Bill Belichick’s offense could become.
October 25, 2025; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA — Running back Davion Gause (37) found the end zone as UNC showed a renewed commitment to the run, calling 39 rushing plays. The 3.7-yard average, though modest, was a solid showing against a tough Virginia defensive front and a step up from previous games. Their 353 total yards of offense and a 32:33–24:27 edge in time of possession highlighted how the run game helped maintain offensive rhythm and control throughout the contest.
What Still Needs Improvement
October 25, 2025; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA — Despite progress, the rushing attack still showed flaws in key situations. Averaging under four yards per attempt left the Tar Heels facing frequent long-yardage downs, limiting their ability to sustain drives. Two empty red-zone trips proved costly, as those missed chances ultimately swung the outcome.
Virginia’s defense, which limited the Cavaliers themselves to just 59 rushing yards, proved how difficult it can be to run effectively against disciplined fronts. UNC still struggles when opponents stack the box and challenge them to win through the air.
The Takeaway
For a program in transition, UNC’s improvement on the ground is a clear positive. The commitment to running the ball, increased yardage totals, and stronger time-of-possession numbers all point to a developing foundation.
However, to turn progress into production, the Tar Heels must find consistency—aiming for 5+ yards per carry, creating explosive plays, and finishing drives in the red zone.
If UNC hopes to transform its rushing attack from a work-in-progress into a reliable strength, the team will need to:
- Mix in more play-action and misdirection to keep defenses guessing.
- Improve offensive line push and minimize negative plays.
- Execute short-yardage situations more efficiently.
Although Saturday’s result wasn’t what UNC wanted, the signs of life in their rushing game are undeniable. The 145-yard output against Virginia might not make headlines, but compared to early-season struggles, it reflects a meaningful step toward balance and stability on offense. With continued refinement, the ground game could evolve into a true asset rather than a recurring concern.
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