UNC Football named a Top 10 exciting team to watch in 2021

A recent article on ESPN tabbed the UNC football program as one of the most exciting teams to watch this upcoming season.

The UNC football program is just days away from their season opener at Virginia Tech, and the hype surrounding this year’s squad is without a doubt at a very high level.

After making an appearance in a New Year’s Six bowl game last season, Mack Brown and company look to go even further with this year’s unit. Based on what we know about the returning players, you could  make the case that this year’s team could be a force to be reckoned with.

In a recent article on ESPN, staff writer Harry Lyles Jr. tabbed the Tar Heels as one of the top 10 most exciting teams to watch during the 2021 season. Here’s why Lyles Jr. believes that North Carolina belongs on this list:

"Like Oklahoma, the quarterback is the main draw with North Carolina.Sam Howell has the potential to be the first quarterback taken in the 2022 NFL draft and will be an early Heisman favorite. North Carolina lost its top two running backs in Javonte Williams and Michael Carter, as well as its top two receivers.However, Howell has the skills to keep the offense moving behind a veteran offensive line. And if the Tar Heels are able to get close to averaging near their 41.7 points per game from 2020, they’re going to be one of the most captivating teams to watch in the country.The Tar Heels return 10 starters on defense, so even if Howell struggles occasionally, Mack Brown expects his defense to cover for him."

Of course, Sam Howell will be must-see TV for college football fans around the country. After a stellar sophomore campaign, Howell is considered among the best quarterbacks in the nation. Although the Tar Heels lost a good amount of talented skill players around him, Howell has some new faces to work with along with a veteran line that possesses a lot of in-game experience.

Along with the offensive unit, Brown and company have to be thrilled that a majority of their defense is returning from last year’s squad. With 10 starters back in the mix, along with the addition of some key talents, this unit most certainly has the opportunity to stifle opposing teams offenses on a weekly basis.

The UNC football program is ready to take the next step, and will need to prove that every time that they take the field this season. If this group can live up to its potential, not only will they challenge for an ACC title, but could very much make a case to be included in this year’s college football playoffs.

Continue to follow the Keeping It Heel team for all the latest news and updates regarding the UNC football program.