The UNC football program will look to bounce back from it's humiliating season-opening loss to Texas Christian when they roll into the newly renovated and expanded Jerry Richardson Stadium to take on Charlotte this Saturday night. The 49ers are also looking to get their first win of the season, having dropped their opener to App State in the Duke's Mayo Classic at Bank of America Stadium.
New head coach Tim Albin has dropped some news of interest to North Carolina fans. Former Tar Heel quarterback Conner Harrell will start for the 49ers.
Tim Albin confirmed that QB Conner Harrell will start on Saturday night against his old team.
— Hunter Bailey (@Hunter_Bailey45) September 2, 2025
Conner Harrell, a former three-star prospect out of Alabama, was in Chapel Hill for three years before transferring to Charlotte with two years of eligibility remaining. He was pressed into service last season at Minnesota after Max Johnson's gruesome leg injury, but eventually ceded the position to Jacolby Criswell.
A dual threat quarterback, Harrell will keep UNC's defense on their toes, as he is a threat to beat defenders with his legs. But as long as the Tar Heels remain disciplined, they should be able to contend with his passing. He only managed to go 13/24 passing for 142 yards against App State.
The Mountaineers, on the other hand, went gorilla mode in the air, throwing for 404 yards and three touchdowns against Charlotte. Whoever starts the game for UNC, needs to get the passing game going, because the 49ers are definitely vulnerable to a competent pass attack.