Defense stepping up
UNC's defense had only eight sacks from its first six games of the season. The Tar Heels nearly matched that total against Virginia, sacking Chandler Morris six times. Delaware transfer Melkart Abou Jaoude got on the board three times, and was joined by big CJ Mims, Isaiah Johnson, and Tyler Thompson who was a beast last week against Cal.
Remember how I mentioned that this was the first time that Virginia was held under 20 points this season? UNC's defense caused problems for the Hoos all afternoon. In fact, the Tar Heels were statistically better in every category than UVA (total yards, passing and rushing yards, first downs, average yards per play) except for the one that matters most.
An offense that could score 21 points in regulation wins this game walking away. It's a shame the UNC's offense can't generate that.