Keeping It Heel
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UNC Football: Josh Downs’ career day helps prevent potential upset loss

By Nick Delahanty

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - NOVEMBER 05: Josh Downs #11 of the North Carolina Tar Heels catches a touchdown pass over Jonas Sanker #20 of the Virginia Cavaliers in the second half during a game at Scott Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - NOVEMBER 05: Josh Downs #11 of the North Carolina Tar Heels catches a touchdown pass over Jonas Sanker #20 of the Virginia Cavaliers in the second half during a game at Scott Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images) /
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The UNC football program was able to avoid an upset loss to Virginia, thanks in large part to a career day from standout Josh Downs.

Josh Downs has had his fair share of memorable performances during his time with the UNC football program.

On Saturday afternoon, Downs put together an outing that may be his best so far.

Downs recorded a career-high 15 receptions, just one short of tying the school’s single-game record. He accounted for 166 receiving yards and a touchdown to help the Tar Heels capture a 31-28 victory over Virginia.

For the third straight week, the Tar Heels found themselves trailing at halftime. As this week’s performance wasn’t pretty by any means, it was Downs who provided the game-changing performance for the UNC football program.

Other than Downs, North Carolina didn’t get much from the rest of the receiving core. Only one player (Antoine Green) had more than two catches, and even his production was limited in this one.

Of course, you have to credit the Cavaliers for slowing the other options down, but they simply had no answer for the Drake Maye to Josh Downs connection.

Downs scored the touchdown that ultimately put the Tar Heels up for good, as he was consistently relied upon as the team fought throughout to put up yet another comeback effort. After Saturday’s contest, Downs now has 48 catches for 527 yards and seven touchdowns through seven games played.

In case you needed a reminder that Downs is one of the top wide receivers in the country, just take a look at his last three outings. The All-American level wideout continues to be the top target for Maye to work with, as the Tar Heels offense remains a steady force that is very difficult for opposing defenses to handle.

UNC football fans, enjoy watching Josh Downs over the next few weeks. You’ll most likely have to tune in on Sundays next season to watch him compete on a football field.

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