Update (6:22 PM)
Lopez was carted off the field toward the locker room. He was seated in the front of the cart with his head buried in his hands.
Original Article
It's been a rough day for Gio Lopez in Orlando, Florida, one that got worse in the third quarter of the UNC football program's non-conference game against UCF.
After throwing two interceptions in the first half, Lopez was looking to provide a spark for his offense. On fourth down and one, Lopez kept it himself, earning enough yards for a first down. However, the run didn't end well, as it appears that Lopez's leg was rolled up on by a host of UCF defenders.
Gio Lopez went down. He was on his hands and knees and surrounded by multiple trainers. He was helped off and seemed to be hobbling on his left leg.
— Shelby Swanson (@shelbymswanson) September 20, 2025
Max Johnson taking over.
Lopez was in visible pain on the field and needed assistance being helped off the field. He was seen notably limping on the sidelines, being replaced by Max Johnson to continue the drive.
For now, we'll have to wait and see how severe this injury is and how North Carolina proceeds to handle this situation. If Lopez can return, will Bill Belichick and the Tar Heels bring him back in or will they roll with Johnson in hopes of getting something going offensively?
Continue to follow the Keeping It Heel team for the latest updates on Gio Lopez's injury situation.