Tar Heels Football: Takeaways from UNC vs. Duke

Nov 10, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils running back Shaun Wilson (29) and running back Quay Mann (15) and running back Jela Duncan (25) celebrate with the victory bell after beating the North Carolina Tar Heels 28-27 at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 10, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils running back Shaun Wilson (29) escapes North Carolina Tar Heels defensive back Myles Dorn (21) in the second half of their game at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /

Tar Heels’ defense sings the Carolina blues

Stopping opposing running backs has been the Achilles Heel for the Tar Heels all season long. UNC’s defense gave up 467 total yards to the Blue Devils. 227 of these yards were on the ground. 240 yards were through the air.

Three of Duke’s touchdowns were rushing touchdowns. Duke’s quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Shaun Wilson ripped the Tar Heels’ defense for 201 yards collectively.

North Carolina cannot afford to allow opposing teams to run all over them. Their title hopes rest on the defense’s ability to shut down the run.

North Carolina has two games remaining on their regular season schedule. Winning the ACC’s Coastal Division is within reach.

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