TCU won the toss and deferred to the second half, giving Tar Heel fans a look at the new-look offense right out of the gate.
While we all waited to see what Billy Edwards Jr., the transfer from Wisconsin, could do, new offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino made sure to get him in a rhythm immediately.
On the first play from scrimmage, Edwards Jr. found tight end Jelani Thurman on a play-action pass, resulting in a 20-yard gain. A few plays later, Edwards threaded the needle, finding Thurman across the middle of the field for a 35-yard gain, setting up UNC for a red zone trip.
Unfortunately, the Tar Heels couldn't convert on third and goal from the two-yard line, having to settle for a field goal.
First points of 2026 🏈 https://t.co/jASXn4IYil pic.twitter.com/vwRfnhAfp7
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) August 29, 2026
The good news is that UNC's opening drive was successful. While we all wish it resulted in a touchdown, you can't be mad by the early result, especially seeing how UNC's offense looks a lot more creative than the one we were tortured to watch a season ago.
While you can't overreact to one drive, you can be encouraged by the result. Hopefully, the Tar Heels' offense can put together more productive drives not only against TCU, but throughout the 2026 season.
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