At one time, George Pettaway and Omarion Hampton were seen as the successors to some legendary Tar Heel running back duos, like Amos Lawrence and Kelvin Bryant, Curtis and Leon Johnson, and Michael Carter and Javonte Williams. In their debut game against Florida A&M in 2022, the true freshmen showcased their potential as a strong duo. Hampton rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns, marking the first time a UNC freshman surpassed 100 yards in a debut since Charlie “Choo Choo” Justice in 1946, while Pettaway contributed 51 yards, including a 29-yard touchdown.
This Saturday, they will meet again at Kenan Stadium, with Hampton leading the Tar Heels’ rushing attack and Pettaway playing a significant role in the James Madison offense. Coach Mack Brown has consistently emphasized the need to run effectively and defend against the run. With Hampton and Pettaway as key players, this matchup against JMU will serve as an early test of UNC’s commitment to a physical, run-oriented offensive strategy and their newly aggressive defensive approach.
Pettaway transferred to James Madison after spending two seasons with the Tar Heels. At JMU, he has demonstrated his versatility as both a rusher and receiver, averaging 57 yards per game. “I’m happy for him,” said UNC tight end John Copenhaver. “It’s unfortunate he didn’t get as much playing time here, but I’m glad to see his success.”
North Carolina defensive back Antavious “Stick” Lane acknowledged that facing Pettaway will be challenging, but he stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and rotating defensive players without a dip in performance. “He likes to get in open space and create one-on-one matchups,” Lane explained. “His agility and ability to catch the ball can definitely make an impact.”
Linebacker Power Echols emphasized the Dukes’ athleticism and ability to maneuver in open space, noting that Pettaway exemplifies this trait. He praised Pettaway’s vision and skill in avoiding tackles to gain extra yards, highlighting that gap control will be crucial in stopping his former teammate. In Harrisonburg, Virginia, Pettaway has been sharing insights about his old school with the Dukes.
Speaking to the media at JMU on Tuesday, he mentioned his familiarity with the players but acknowledged the strategic changes due to new coaching staff, particularly under Geoff Collins and the Tar Heel defense. Pettaway noted that the front line looks solid and synchronized, stating that his Dukes will need to put in effort to succeed.
“After scouting them for the past couple of weeks, they definitely look different,” he remarked. “They’re showing a bit more aggression on defense and a new scheme. The defensive coordinator has a different approach.” One constant, however, is Hampton’s continued dominance; he earned ACC Running Back of the Week honors last week after rushing for 210 yards and scoring three touchdowns against NCCU.
Hampton’s knack for grinding out tough yards has made him a key player in UNC’s offensive strategy. Out of his 416 rushing yards this season, 210 have come after contact, leading the nation according to Pro Football Focus. For Pettaway, Saturday holds special significance. Although he knows the Tar Heels well, returning to Kenan Stadium as an opponent is a new experience, and he recognizes the importance of this moment. “I really don’t know what the emotions will be like,” Pettaway said. “I haven’t faced this situation before. But I’m definitely focused on the game and staying locked in, just trying to do my job and secure the win.”
BETTING ODDS
The early betting lines have the Tar Heels favored by 10.5 points over the Dukes, with an over/under set at 47.5.
HOW TO WATCH
The game will be broadcast on the ACC Network. With Disney resolving its contract issues with DirecTV, it will also be available on DirecTV, fuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV.
NORTH CAROLINA (3-0) VS. JAMES MADISON (2-0)
When: Saturday, 12 p.m.
Where: Kenan Stadium, Chapel Hill.
TV: ACC Network.
Series: UNC leads the series 3-0, having won 56-28 in 2016, 42-10 in 2011, and 37-14 in 2007, with all three games taking place at Kenan Stadium.
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