Tar Heels Football: Takeaways from UNC vs. Illinois

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Sep 10, 2016; Champaign, IL, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini defensive lineman Dawuane Smoot (91) and defensive lineman Carroll Phillips (6) tackle North Carolina Tar Heels running back Elijah Hood (34) in the endzone for a safety during the 2nd quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Granse-USA TODAY Sports /

North Carolina’s Suspect Play-Calling Deep in their territory

For the second consecutive game, the North Carolina Tar Heels allowed their opponent to get a safety. Last week, North Carolina was deep in their own territory and Mitch Trubisky threw a screen pass to Elijah Hood which resulted in a safety.

This week, the North Carolina offense was in shotgun formation. Trubisky handed the ball off to running back Elijah Hood, who was tackled in the end zone.

UNC needs to keep it simple when they get backed up close to the goal line. When the Tar Heels are backed up deep in their territory, maybe a simple quarterback sneak will be suffice? Or even a power formation run?

From experience, a screen pass and shotgun formation have not worked out too well.

Trubisky is an excellent runner. Play it safe and let him run the ball. If not Trubisky, then use Hood or Logan.

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