Defensive Improvement
Surrendering just six points on two field goals to Richmond after giving up just three points to Charlotte is certainly a step in the right direction after TCU poured on 48 points on opening night. UNC's defense has dominated against weaker competition, but the journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.
Richmond's first four drives did not yield a single first down, and the third series resulted in a turnover on downs on their own 25-yard line. If it weren't for a Marcus Allen pass interference call that gave Richmond its first first down, which broke the seal on the Spider offensive rut, they might not have earned a fresh set of downs in the entire first half. Even against FCS competition, that's impressive.
On Richmond's second drive of the game, Delaware transfer Melkart Abou-Jaoude sacked Kyle Wickersham on two consecutive plays, forcing a punt. The Tar Heels also started the second half with a goal-line stand, followed by two fumble recoveries. There's a lot to like here, but it remains to be seen if UNC can keep scores down in the single-digits against tougher competition.