Keeping It Heel
Fansided

Lessons Learned from the UNC football program's victory over Minnesota

It's North Carolina in reverse, a struggling offense paired with a competent defense.

By Michael McKay

Aug 29, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels linebacker Amare Campbell (17) forces a fumble on Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer (16) during the second half at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 29, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels linebacker Amare Campbell (17) forces a fumble on Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer (16) during the second half at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports / Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
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Omarion Hampton is Him

Omarion Hampton
Aug 29, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back Omarion Hampton (28) runs the ball against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first half at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports / Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Last season, Minnesota limited Omarion Hampton to 46 yards. That was never going to happen again, but the Gophers made it tough in the first half, limiting the star running back to 55 yards rushing. Offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey started varying up the calls in a wonderfully scripted opening drive in the third quarter, and the Tar Heels had 13:34 time of possession in the third quarter.

What does a tired defense hate more than anything? Probably Omarion Hampton smashing into the second level getting first downs.

Minnesota was able to stack the box, and Hampton still managed to rush for 129 yards and had five catches (on five targets) for 17 receiving yards. If Conner Harrell can get up to speed during the UNC football program's non-conference schedule and get some safeties back into pass coverage, Hampton could have some frightening numbers.

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