Grayson Atkins
Grayson Atkins was only called upon to attempt one field goal in this game, but it was a big one for the graduate student from South Carolina. With the game scoreless, Atkins attempted a 51-yard field goal. Atkins made the attempt, marking it the longest field goal of his Carolina career.
Grayson Atkins converts from 51 yards! That ties his longest made FG as a Tar Heel. pic.twitter.com/u6Da5gxjNc
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) October 9, 2021
This isn’t Atkins’ career-best, as he nailed a 55-yarder during his time at Furman. However, this was still a big kick for Atkins, as he was able to set a new career-high at North Carolina while also helping the Tar Heels get on the board for the first time in the game.
Kickers can play a huge role in the outcome of games. You can easily make the case that the Tar Heels should’ve sent Atkins out for the field goal attempt on fourth-and-goal when trailing by multiple scores. But the point of the matter is that there is a good chance Atkins will be called upon to hit some big field goals down the stretch, and we’re sure he’ll be ready for the occasion.