A pair of UNC football standouts earn ACC Player of the Week honors

The UNC football program was well-represented on the ACC's Players of the Week honors for the opening weekend of the 2024 college football season.

Jahvaree Ritzee was named the ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week while kicker Noah Burnette earned the Specialist of the Week honor.

Ritzee put together arguably his best overall performance as a member of the UNC football program, as he recorded six total tackles. He was a matchup nightmare for the Gophers' offensive line, as he recorded three sacks in the victory.

Burnette once again was automatic, as he picked up right where he left off from a seaso ago. The Tar Heels' kicker connected on a career-best 52-yarder, as three of his attempts were from 40+ yards out. He came up clutch in the final minutes of the game as he connected on what would end up being the game-winning field goal for the UNC football program.

Defense and special teams stepped up big-time for the UNC football program in the 19-17 victory in Week 1 action, as both aspects will be crucial for the team's success moving forward. The hope is that Ritzee can build upon his career day while Burnette continues to have ice in his veins, knocking down key field goal attempts when the Tar Heels need him to tack points on the board.

Ritzee, Burnette and the UNC football program return to Chapel Hill for their season opener on Saturday afternoon as they'll host Charlotte in non-conference action.