OPENING WEEK PRIMER: #BEATSAKERLINA

ALL THE LINKS TO GET YOU PREPPED FOR THE 2015 CAROLINA FOOTBALL SEASON

BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER

UNC BACKFIELD

UNC RECEIVERS AND TIGHT ENDS

UNC O LINE 

UNC FRONT SEVEN

UNC DBs AND SPECIAL TEAMS

UNC 2015 PREDICTION

2015 ACC PREDICTIONS


AND FOR THE OPENING WEEK:

WEEK ONE VIEWERS GUIDE

2015 CAROLINA FOOTBALL PREDICTION

After a less than desirable couple of years for the Carolina Football program, Larry Fedora and Budda Cunningham decided to hit the refresh button on the Program, went out and hired one of the sharpest defensive minds in the college game in Gene Chizik. Chizik has simplified the defense, implemented aggressive looks, and reinforced a foundation of excellent technique to get the defense headed back into the right direction. Hopefully this defensive change helps Carolina avoid the slow starts that plagued the 2013 and 2014 season. This year's schedule sets up nicely for Carolina to get a jump start on getting bowl bound and working out many of the kinks before facing the meat of the schedule that looms, starting in October. But there's several games before that critical Coastal Division date in Atlanta and they start tonight.

Game 1 - Sakerlina Gamecocks (in Charlotte)
Thursday, September 3rd, 6pm on the Mothership
What to expect? Go figure that the most unknown game to me in the 2015 season is the first one. Carolina opens up against a familiar opponent in a Steve Spurrier coached team that ran Carolina out of Columbia two years ago. Spurrier and the Gamecocks are coming their own disappointing season, and off season with lots of personnel and coaching changes (sound familiar?). Sakerlina has faced so much attrition on offense between Graduating Seniors and injuries, I just can't fathom them racking up a ton of points. Their defense like the one Chapel Hill, got carved up like a Christmas Ham and led to many close losses in 2014. Eventhough Spurrier's distate for anything Carolina Tar Heels will rile up his troops in the pregame locker, my gut tells me that they won't be able to stop the Carolina offense. Expect many points to be given up by both teams, with Carolina giving up less.
UNC Win 1-0

Game 2 - North Carolina A&T Aggies
Saturday, September 12t, 6pm on ESPN3
What to Expect? Carolina, fresh off a victory over Sakerlina starts off slow but takes care of business in the second half and runs the Aggies back to Greensboro.
UNC Win 2-0

Game 3 - Illinois Fighting Illini
Saturday, September 19th, High Noon
What to Expect? Prior to troubling news out of Champaign this past week I expected this game to be a very tricky one for the Tar Heels. High Noon at Kenan in front of a so-so crowd doesn't quite get the juices flowing for many folks besides yours truly. Expect this to be an ugly game early with the Heels putting the game out of reach early in the forth quarter.
UNC Win 3-0

Game 4 - Delaware Fighting Blue Hens
Saturday, September 26th,
What to Expect? A second FCS program in 3 weeks, Ohio State pulling out the home-home series really did a number on this year's schedule. I don't see this one close. I mean, it's not like Joe Flacco is walking back through that door for the hens. 
UNC Win 4-0

Game 5 -  at Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 
Saturday, October 3,
What to Expect? Haven't won in Atlanta in almost two decades. Until Carolina wins here, I'm not predicting a win. Georgia Tech, despite losing what feels like 6 or 7 running backs will have another potent offense behind the best Quarterback they've ever had in this triple option system: Justin Thomas. While GT's lost about what feels like every running back on the roster, they return a massive chunk of a defense that improved down the stretch in 2014. Expect this to be shootout, with the Jackets continuing to own the Heels in ATL.
UNC Loss 4-1

Game 6 - Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Saturday, October 17th
What to Expect? While I believe Wake Forest Football is trending in the right direction under Dave Clausen, I still expect the Deacs 2-3 years away from making some noise to be middle of the pack.
UNC Win 5-1

Game 7 - University of Virginia Cavaliers
Saturday, October 24
What to Expect? One of my favorite statistics in all of football is my rooting interests are undefeated against UVA with Mike London at the helm. Like my convictions about Carolina playing Georgia Tech in Atlanta, I don't expect Carolina (or Virginia Tech for that matter) to lose to a Mike London coached UVA team until it actually happens. This will be stop #7 on the #MikeLondonFarewellTour
UNC Win 6-1

Game 8 - at University of Pittsburgh Panthers
Thursday, October 29th, 730pm on the Mothership
What to Expect? Short week traveling to play a physical road team? This game scares me to death. Some of the kinks Pitt's had on defense should be worked out by the new coaching staff at this point. James Conner is my pick for the ACC Player of the Year in 2015. Behind a mauling offensive line, expect him to have a field day while I watch in person.
UNC Loss 6-2

Game 9 - Duke University Blue Devils
Saturday, November 7th
What to Expect? Even before half of Duke decided to get injured, I saw this team trending in the wrong direction. Sirk will be a very good quarterback and has enough talent around him to pout up some points. I just don't see Duke getting the better of Carolina this year. After a long week, Carolina responds with getting one in the win column.
UNC Win 7-2

Game 10 - University of Miami Hurricanes
Saturday, November 14th
What to expect? Miami beat Carolina's ass from one end of South Florida to the other in 2014. Brad Kaaya returns for a Miami squad who still has a bitter taste in their mouths following a 6-7 season. I have Carolina losing to the other two physical teams on the schedule prior to this game and the Miami game will be no different. Sensing a trend?
UNC Loss 7-3

Game 11 - at Virginia Tech Hokies
Saturday, November 21st
What to Expect? Just like James Conner scares the daylights out of me, so does the Virginia Tech defense this year. Carolina will face one of the best, if not the best, on most likely a cold Senior Night in Blacksburg. Those don't usually fare too well for opponents, just ask Matt Johns. (h/t @TheKeyPlay for the GIF)

UNC Loss 7-4

Game 12 - at NC State University Wolfpack
Saturday, November 28,
What to Expect? After the shellacking the team from West Raleigh put on us this past year I expect Carolina to come out firin'. I still haven't gotten the disgusting taste out of my mouth following the worst performance I've ever watched the Tar Heels put on the field. Nothing would make this guy happier than spoiling Jacoby and noted female assaulter Shadrach Thornton's Senior Day.
UNC Win 8-4

I expect:

• Carolina to improve a bit on defense this year. Last year demise was not solely on the talent in the program, but also the team had just given up on the system and the coach in charge of running the defense. Don't  the defense to hold every opponent under 30, but don't expect the 50 spots to litter the scoreboard either. 
• Elijah Hood and Bug Howard to have monster years on offense. Hood has had a chip on his shoulder the entire off season after putting together a less than stellar freshman campaign. This year he shows the ACC why he was one of the top recruits coming out of high school. Howard had the best camp of all receivers. Things appear to finally be clicking for the Junior who should see many targets this year with so much focus on stopping Switzer, Davis and Hollins
• Marquise to put together an ACC POY caliber season. He's loaded with weapons and is healthy for the first time in two seasons.
• Carolina to finish in 3 way tie for second in the Coastal.

To another year of Carolina Football.... may you surprise me this year on defense and prove me wrong by ending up in Charlotte the first weekend of December. The time is now. Let's Go!

WEEK ONE #VIEWERSGUIDE: COLLEGE FOOTBALL BACK

THE NEXT 5 MONTHS OF MAYHEM IS BACK. VIEWERS GUIDE IS BACK. COLLEGE FOOTBALL IS BACK Y'ALL.

So without further due, here is your Week 1 Viewers Guide

Thursday Nite 

Late afternoon

• Carolina vs Sakerlina; 6pm; The Mothership - The battle of the visors and the battle for border rights. This one naturally has yours truly's attention. Not only are recruiting battles and bragging rights on the line, the Guv'nahs of each state have wagered a BBQ dinner. Let's hope McCrory can throw the shit stained sandwich Sakerliners love, Maurice's BBQ, in the trash when it arrives in Raleigh. 
• OK state at directional Michigan 7pm espn u - should be a snoozer but you'll need to watch something during the commericas of Carolina vs Sakerlina

Night Games

• MICHIGAN  at UTAH 830 fs1 - Harbaugh's debut as a MICHIGAN MAN features him and his team in a very hostile environment against a very good team. Unless he's been able to give birth to a supernova of a football team, this one could get very ugly for the new MICHIGAN MAN. 
• Tcu at Minnesota 9pm - The Mothership - A sneaky road game for the highly ranked Horned Frogs as they face an inspired and up and coming Gopher squad.
• Road runners at Zona 10 pm pac 12 tv - Larry Coker gets his late night groove on with Rich Rod in a meeting of old Big East Head Coaching Foes.

Late Night

• Colarado at Hawaii - CBS Sports Network 1am - For you insomniacs, Robert Kekaula sings you to sleep with his sweet voice and bedazzled garb
  

Friday Night Lights

Late Afternoon

• Charlotte at Georgia State - Sharlitt is at the center of the college football world for a second straight afternoon with the new FBS Niners traveling Hotlanta to do battle another new Georgia State. This will be all sorts of terrible football so feel free to zone out and recharge after pulling an all nighter to watch Hawaii.

Night Games

• Sparty at directional Michigan 7pm on the U - This one could and should get ugly.
• Baylor bear at pony up 7pm the mother ship - Another Friday Night Snoozer that will get ugly very very early.
• Washington at the smurfs 1015 the mothership - This is the only game, besides your local high school battle, worth watching this Friday Evening. Former Papa Smurf Chris Peterson faces his old program, who has been listed as a dark horse candidate to shake up the big time bowls this year. 

Football Saturday

High Nooners

The noon hour is a bunch of snoozers but ill be tuned into Stanford vs Northwestern to check out the battle of the nerds, ole miss vs ut martin to watch swag Kelly in his ole miss debut.

Mid Afternooners

• Louisville vs Auburn on CBS with VERNE  330pm - Louisville carries the weight of the ACC on their shoulders as they set to due battle with an Auburn offense led by what folks are calling the next Cam Newton. The Cards should have pne of the nastiest defenses east of the Mississippi this season, so this one should be exciting to watch.
• UVA AT UCLA  on FOX at 330pm - UVA has loaded up their schedule on the Mike London Fairwell Tour. 
• Byu vs Nebraska big red ABC at 330 - A sneaky little game in bewteen two historic programs should get the average fan's interest.

Evening Games

• Zona state at A and M on The Mothership at 7pm- Rumors are these teams should both be very good this season. The personalities on the sideline are worth watching too
• Tejas at ND 730 on NBC - Two of the most historic programs in all of college football face in a Week One special that, if played 10, 20, 30 years ago, would be considered the Game of the Century. Lord Purple Face's squad expects to be a CFP contender while Strong's is likely a year or two away. If this Week One Gem from yesteryear re-emerges, then College Football becomes all of the more interesting
  

• Wisky vs Bama on ABC at 8pm - Welcome to Wisconsin, Paul Chryst! You've earned an opener again Nick Saban's best defense since 2011!

Late Night 

• Arkansas st at Southern Cal 11pm on pac 12 tv  - Southern Cal has been called the team to beat in the Pac 12 South for 2015. We'll find out a lot about their defense against the Offense Minded Arkansas State squad that's been known to put up many a' points

Sunday

• Purdue at doc holidays marshall 3pm on the U- .....pass

Monday Night Football

Ohio state at Virginia Tech 8pm The Mothership. It pains me to say I will not be attending this one. Best of luck to the #HokieFam. You can bet your mortgage that Lane Stadium with be ROCKIN.

Enjoy Week One, y'all. 

WFP

SAKERLINA GAME WEEK #UNC DBs and STs Preview

To wrap up the defensive previews. let's shift gears to a group that got carved up like a Christmas Ham this past year: The Defensive Backfield. Despite possessing of the most talent we've seen in half a decade, this group remains a mystery heading into 2015. Between the numerous missed tackles, blown coverages, and unfocused play (like you'll see below), the defensive backfield,in large part, contributed to a record shattering group( not a good record) in terms of points and yards allowed. There's a new sherrif in town coaching up the DBs, his name is Charlton Warren and he seeks to get the Rude Boyz playing back at an elite level.

No more of this, please. (h/t to Inside Carolina for the GIF)

Charlton Warren- Defensive Backs Coach

Warren, currently serving his first year on Carolina's staff, came to Chapel Hill alongside John Papuchis after a year at Nebraska. Prior to that one year term he served on the Air Force Coaching Staff with a number of roles including Defensive Coordinator, Secondary Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. His ties with Larry Fedora go back to the years Warren played at Air Force (1995-1998) when Larry was an Offensive Assistant for the Falcons. He's known for sure tackling and aggressive secondaries that often are known for holding opponents to low completion rates and passing efficiency. He posed the no spot was guaranteed method to all positions in the secondary this off-season and it's let to some fierce competitions for the two deep at each position.

Cornerbacks

Field Corner

The advantage to playing with a Field and Boundary Corner system is even if the Field Corner is the "weaker" coverage corner, the offense is forced to make the Quarterbacks make the tougher throws to the field options. These players generally have better range and play well in space. They also must be sure tacklers because the offense has more room to play around with the field side "space."

1. MJ Stewart (#6) 5-11 200 lbs Sophomore - MJ Stweart has one nothing but impress since setting foot in Chapel Hill. It seems like all of 2014 he pushed Walker for the starting nod at Field Corner. Now a sophomore, this is Stewarts time and many believe he has the potential to be considered among the Carolina Greats at Cornerback before it's all said and done.
2. Brian Walker (#5) 5-11 190 lbs Junior - A two year retunring starter is never a bad thing to have as a backup. Expect to see Walker often on the field serving as the Nickel Back in this defense. Walker has excellent range but must improve his physicality in his play. He often avoids contact in situations when Carolina needs him to get in the trenches. 
3. Kedrick Davis (#19) 5-10 180 lbs Redshirt Junior - Kedrick Davis seems like he's been at Carolina for year. Expect Davis to see most of his action on special teams unless one of the two above players go down.

Boundary Corner

The Boundary Corner always plays on the short side of the field. In college it's much easier for a QB to make a read and throw to the hort side of the field, which leads many offenses to have their first pass option throwing to the boundary side. Often times defenses will put their best coverage corner along the boundary which puts the offense in a bind.

1. Des Lawrence (#2) 6-1 185 lbs Junior - A two year returning starter at Boundary Corner, it didn;t appear that Lawrence had kept hold of the position one the highly toute Mike Hughes started practice. Many wondered if Warren had sent a message to Lawrence ones many saw Hughes at the to of the depth chart. Lawrence has excellent size for a corner, as he's built like a free safety. Carolina needs Lawrence to play less head games this year and to play with much more reckless abandon.
2. Mike Hughes (#1) 5-11 185 lbs True Freshman - The Freshman that the whole Carolina world has heard about is making a name for himself in Chapel Hill. Do not be surprised to see Mike Hughes on the field early and often this year. A freak athlete from New Bern, Hughes expects to contribute as well in the kick return and punt return game.
3. TJ Jiles (#37) 5-11 180 lbs Senior - Jiles has been a lifetime role player and special teamer since arriving in Chapel Hill. Kid's never lived up to the hype.
4. Malik Simmons (#11) 5-11 190 lbs Senior SUSPENDED - Simmons, who played often in Carolina's lost Ram Position the last couple of years finally is back to his more natural position of cornerback. The knuckle head did get into some trouble over the summer and has been suspended for the first couple of games of the season. 

Strong Safety

String safeties tend to be sized somewhat larger than a free safety. They're often called upon to provide run support like a linebacker yet have to have the range of a cornerback or free safety. Generally a strong safety gets matched up with a running back or fullback when in man coverage.

1. Donnie Miles (#15) 5-11 210 Redshirt Sophomore - Donny Miles saw most of his action his redshirt freshman year at the Ram position but has shifted back to his more natural fit of strong safety. Miles is a very physicl player who seeks contact and bring the wood. He saw more and more action as the season progressed and is poised for a breakout season in 2015.
2. Dom Green (#26) 5-11 190 lbs Junior - After having a monster season as a freshman, Green faced a setback year in 2014 and looks to rebound. Never one to shy away from contact, he was often found out of position and struggled in space in 2014. He's once again 100% healthy and 100% focused. Carolina needs Green to step up to assist in changing the defensive culture in the program. 
3. JK Britt (#29) 6-0 195 lbs True Freshman - Britt spent most of the Spring and Fall Camps atop the depth chart at Free Safety but his physicality gives him the versatility to play strong safety as well. 

Free Safety
A free safety tends to watch the play unfold and follow the ball. When in man coverage/run coverage the FS is often assigned the QB but when the QB remains in the pocket expect the FS to provide high or over the top coverage to another DB. Free safeties must have excellent range, closing speed and instincts as they are often called upon to make a read and then the play while covering the furthest distance.

1. Sam Smiley (#3) 5-11 190 lbs Redshirt Senior - Smiley, who's played about every position in the secondary finds himself atop the depth chart at Free Safety for his last season in Chapel Hill. Had a solid comeback year in 2014 after missing all of 2013 with a season ending foot injury. Has been called by the coaches as a sound leader of the group.
2. JK Britt (#29) 6-0 195 lbs True Freshman - Like mentioned above Britt gave Smiley a run for his money for the starting Free Safety spot. Britt has excellent range and football IQ for a freshman. Expect to see him on the field often in 2015.
3. Allen Artis (#4) 6-1 205 lbs Sophomore - Artis played in spots as true freshman most notably down the stretch. Will see lots of playing time on special teams this year

Special Teams

Place Kicker:  Nick Weiler #23 (Jr) gets the nod over  Freeman Jones #98 (Redshirt Freshman)

Kickoff Speacialist: Nick Weiler #23(Jr) gets the nod over  Freeman Jones (Redshirt Freshman)

Punter: Corbin Daly #90 (Redshirt Freshman) gets the nod over Joey Mangili (Jr) #23

Deep Snapper: Kyle Murphy #60 (Soph.) or Tommy Bancroft (Freshman) #61

Holder: Joey Mangili

Kick Off Return: TJ Logan, Romar Morris, Brian Walker, Mike Hughes

Punt Return: Ryan Switzer, Mike Hughes

Between the DBs and Special Teams, Carolina has it's fair share of problems associated in 2014. We had kickers who couldn't connect from outside of 30 yards and we had DBs who often avoided contact or whiffed entirely. If Carolina wants any kind of success in 2015, these two groups must be much improved. 

SAKERLINA GAME WEEK: #UNC Front Seven Preview

Now that we've covered the Offensive Line, it's time to focus on Carolina other most important position groups of 2015: The Front Seven. Easily one of the biggest factors in last year's deplorable defensive was the inability to control the line of scrimmage. Gene Chizik, John Papuchis, and Tray Scott have had their work cut out for them since setting foot on campus earlier this year. They've had to mold an out of touch and out of place position group, by teaching them basic technique, encouraging aggressiveness and simplifying assignments. Gap Control is the name of the game this season in Chapel Hill and let's look at the two men most responsible for setting the tone for this group.

Coaches

Gene Chizik - Defensive Coordinator
Chizik, in his first season in Chapel Hill, comes to Carolina as one of the most decorated defensive coordinators in the country. Winning National Championships both as a Head Coach (thanks to Cam Newton) and as Defensive Coordinator for Texas (and an undefeated season at Auburn). He and his defensive staff have ta mountain to climb this year and they try to re-vamp one of the statistically worst defenses in the country a year ago. His base 4-3, with over and under fronts, focuses on gap control and aggressiveness. His system simplifies the zone front had implemented in town the last few years. Expect to see a similar defensive strategy that we saw under the Davis/Withers administration:

• Lots of Man to Man coverage with two high safeties
• a Defensive Line that causes havoc, desires line of scrimmage control and prevents second level blocking
• play-making linebackers
• No more hybrid positions rather than read and decide
• read and react
• fewer zone blitzes
• better technique and hopefully surer tackling

Tray Scott -  Defensive Line Coach

Scott, in his first season at Chapel Hill, is considered a rising star in the coaching ranks. He gained notoriety at Ole Miss and at Arkansas State as part of Hugh Freeze's staff. His lines put up very aggressive numbers, often leading the conference in sacks and tackles for loss. His work on the recruiting trail is one to right home about as he was part of the team that produced Ole Miss' best recruiting class in school history (2013). Tray Scott is never shy to move guys around to develop versatility and increase competition which has resulted in surprising two deep on the D Line heading in 2015.

John Papuchis - Linebackers Coach
Papuchis has spent many of his years around big time college football. Hailing from tenures at both LSU and Nebraska, he's spent many years with one of the sharpest defensive minds in the game. He served as the defensive line coach, special teams coordinator, recruiting coordinator and defensive coordinator at various points under Les Miles at LSU and Bo Pelini at Nebraska. Papuchis hopes to return linebacker play to what Carolina fans became accustomed to at the end of the previous decade.

Nose Tackle
Powell and Clarke's battle for Nose Tackle has been relentless this off-season as both players have pushed each other to get better. Clarke took advantage of injury attrition this past spring and never looked back on the depth chart. Carolina's defensive line got abused on the interior this past year. It's imperative that the Nose Tackle and Three Technique units have vastly improved over a somewhat dreadful 2014.

1. Jeremiah Clarke (#49) 6-5 315 Redshirt Freshman - The highly touted Redshirt Freshman from Alexandria Virginia has burst on the scene in his first year on the active roster. Clarke has the most upside of any of the interior defensive linemen. "Fat Melo" should be a force on the ACC interior for the next few years. Clarke moves very, very well for a man of his size.
2. Tyler Powell (#95) 6-4 290 lbs Sophomore - Despite getting thrown into the wolves, Powell put together a decent season as a true freshman in 2014. Possesses a tremendous motor and should continue to improve as he gains experience. Powell will be relied on heavily for quality depth.  
3. Aaron Crawford (#92) 6-1 310 lbs True Freshman Since arriving on campus in June, Crawford has made a name for himself. Not only is is he helping the interior of the defense with depth, but also Crawford has been competing for playing time as the nose guard in passing situations. A noted workout warrior, expect Crawford to see playing time this fall.

Defensive Tackle (Three Technique)
The other interior position on the interior defensive line looks to take a big step forward in 2015 from where it was in 2014. With two players returning with loads of game experience, look for improved production on the outside shades of the guards.

1. Nazair Jones (#90) 6-5 295 Redshirt Sophomore - Arguably Carolina's best pass rusher on the interior, Nazair Jones is the player I'm always watching the most. Jones must improve his every down play in his second year, as he often looked a bit lost following long developing plays this past year. Jones is a naturally gifted athlete who has every tool needed to be a stand out player in the conference. He's just too talented to not have a break out year. 
2. Justin Thomason (#98) 6-4 295 lbs Senior - Thomason feels like he's been in Chapel Hill forever. Started every game this past season at tackle and will provide excellent depth and versatlity as he's played both interior DL positions.
3. Robert Dinkins (#93) 6-1 270 lbs Redshirt Freshman - The undersized 3 technique from Charlotte's Olympic high school makes up for his size with a great first step. He'll be relied upon for depth in 2015 and expect to see him in the occasional pass rushing situation.

Defensive End
Gene Chizik's shift back to a more traditional 4-3 allowed the defensive line to re-establish itself with two traditional defensive end. This  change from the rush end and hybrid "Bandit" position should pay dividends as Carolina never had the personnel for the previous system. Like Defensive Tackle, competition for D End has been exciting since winter workouts. It seemed like a different player took  first team reps every other practice. As Fall Camp carried on, some new leaders emerged, players bounced back and forth to both defensive end positions, and the D End postion grew deeper and more versatile.

Strongside 

1. Junior Gnonkonde (#44) 6-4 260 lbs Redshirt Junior - Junior Gnonkonde continues to dazzle in Chapel Hill. Gnonkonde is experienced at both defensive end positions and is Carolina's best pass rushing option on the roster. Despite his size, Junior can flat out run. His football career is still very young as he's still only in his 5th year of playing competitive ball. Gnonkonde is poised for a breakout year.
2. Jessie Rogers (#43) 6-4 270 lbs Senior - Jessie Rodgers was easily one of the most productive players on the defensive line leading the team in tackles for loss since having roughly 50 percent of the snaps to the other returning defensive linemen. Has the versatility to play the defensive tackle position as well.
3. Jalen Dalton (#97) 6-6 280 lbs Freshman -Dalton will likely Redshirt this year after coming to Carolina as one of the most desired defensive line prospects in the country this past year. Dalton, who's grown almost 40 lbs since leaving high school last winter, is still learning how play with his added size. Despite many folks thinking he would be an impact player when he arrived on campus, it didn't surprise me to see the coaching staff consider a Redshirt year for the new guy. The redshirt year did work wonders for Jeremiah Clarke who transitioned from playing mostly defensive end in high school to playing the most interior position on the defense.

Weakside

1. Mikey Bart (#45) 6-3 270 lbs Junior - Bart is a tough, tenacious high motored defensive end who unfortunately played out of position his first two years at Chapel Hill at Bandit. Tray Scott has praised this kid's motor each and every practice. He's the kind of kid who leaves it all on the field. I was very surprised to see him get nod over Drennon who was the returning starter. Let's hope Bart has a break out year.
2. Dajuan Drennon (#17) 6-4 255 lbs Redshirt Sophomore - It's not very often a returning starter gets beat, especially one who performed a solidly as Drennon did his Freshman year. Tray Scott has spoken volumes that there were no guaranteed spots on the defensive line. With Drennon currently listed at number two, it does give Carolina a sense of solid depth at Weakside defensive end.
3. Malik Carney (#53) 6-3 230 lbs Redshirt Freshman - Carney spent this past year as a Redshirt and will be getting his first bit of college action in 2015. He's still a bit undersized for where Chizik wants to see his defensive ends but expect him to get some snaps on mop up duty.

Sam Linebacker
Will Linebacker was arguably Carolina's most watched position battle on defensive as Spring Ball and Fall Camp rolled on. After Cayson Collins fantastic second half of the 2014 season it was expected that he was a lock for the Sam Linebacker position. As today stands, that's not the case...

1. Joe Jackson (#32) 6-2 225 lbs Redshirt Junior - The main reason that we don't see Collins' name at first on the depth chart, is because Joe Jackson has been a MAN in camp. He was officially named the starter about a dozen days ago. His development has been slated as one who took advantage of the clean slate mentality this defensive coaching staff has shown. He's been a fierce competitor from everywhere from the weight room, the film room to the practice field. 
2. Cayson Collins (#23) 6-1 235 lbs Sophomore - It's not all doom and gloom that Collins is slotted as back up at Will Linebacker. In fact it's a tremendous advantage that Carolina has the depth they absolutely need at WLB. With backside gap responsibility having a duo that can rotate in and out can lend a big role in backside 
3. Ayden Bonilla (#24) 6-2 220 lbs Redshirt Freshman - Bonilla spent his Redshirt season learning the ropes at strong safety and the hybrid "Ram" position. The new coaching staff believes his time will better served as weak side linebacker. expect to see most of snaps to come on special teams.

Mike (Middle) Linebacker

Of Note: Nate Staub retired from competitive football this past spring because of lingering injury problems. I was very high on Staub the past couple of years and was excited to see what he would be able to do in a more traditional Linebacker role in this system. His loss hurts but I can't blame a guy for hanging up the cleats when it's time. There's no smarter decision to make when you're told that your long term health could be affected and decide to hang up the cleats (I had to make the same decision).

1. Jeff Schoettmer (#10) 6-2 235 lbs 5th Year Senior - The heart and soul of the carolina defense for the second consecutive year. It's rare to find a player who's made as much improvement over the course of two years as Jeff Schoettmer has. He looked lost in 2012, began to find himself in 2013, became a team leader in 2014, and is poised for a monster senior year. Has played all over the field from safety to will backer to mike backer. He's the kinda guy you want to share a foxhole with.
2. Andre Smith (#56) 6-0 235 lbs True Freshman - Smith has done nothing but impress since arriving on campus. The coaches are very high on his upside. Expect to have a solid True Freshman campaign.
3. Dan Mastromatteo 6-2 235 lbs Redshirt Junior - Dan M has struggled to break the two deep since getting to Carolina. Hopefully with him playing a more traditional linebacker role he'll be able to get some PT on defense. He's been excellent of special teams and the hope is it translates to every down.

Will  Linebacker
**** 9/1/2015 In an artcile released by Inside Carolina was confirmed the Shakeel Rashad is in fact starting at Will Linebacker instead of the Sam Linebacker that was previously mentioned. This system uses a bit larger Will Backer and the Will lines up in the open B Gap while the Sam is generally covered up in the over and under fronts.

1. Shakeel Rashad (#42) 6-2 235 5th Year Senior - After playing out of position for the past couple of years, Rashad has slimmed down to play his more natural fit of Strongside Linebacker. Rashad is an elite athlete with a world of potential. Here's to the hope that this kid, who's had his time in Chapel Hill hindered due to injuries, makes the most of his last hurrah in Chapel Hill.
2. Cole Holcomb (#34) 6-1 215 lbs Sophomore - One of the biggest talking points of the off-season has been the progress walk on Cole Holcomb has made over the last calendar year. His presence has been a big surprise. A very instinctual player who plays bigger than his body are always words you love reading about a linebacker.
3. Jonathan Sutton (#54) 6-0 230 True Freshman - There's still a chance that Sutton ends up redshirting but no one should be surprised if he ends up taking snaps in 2015, especially on special teams. Sutton is the Strongside Linebacker of the future for Carolina and the coaching staff is very high on his potential in this system.

If Carolina wants to get its defense separated from the last couple of years respective disasters, this team must start with changing the culture in the front seven. Carolina must play more aggressive, violent and take their game to the opposing offense rather than letting the offense come to them. Expect to see lots of rotation along the defensive line as the defensive coaching staff seeks to keep all bodies fresh during the game for the course of the season. The D Line must fight to prevent opposing blockers from getting to the second and third levels, which allows the linebackers to flow from sideline to side line and make plays. We are three days from kickoff y'all. It's incredible how close we are.

WFP

SAKERLINA WEEK: #UNC 2015 O Line Preview

If you're familiar with my constant harping on the importance of Offensive Line play, the theme and tone of the below script should come as no surprise. For a third straight season Carolina's Offensive Line has the opportunity to either be biggest improvement or the biggest dissapointment for the 2015 offensive unit. Going into camp I was very high on what O Line Coach Chris Kaplovic was building in Chapel Hill. We we're beginning to see the veteran leadership take over and the influx of previously highly ranked prospects begin to finally develop and start to click. However, as Fall Camp has progressed, injuries and attrition have derailed the unit's supposed promise for 2015. What assumed to be the best offensive line since the dominant 2012 group, the 2015 is starting to shift away from benefiting the offense to hindering it. Let's take a look at the man chiefly responsible for keeping this unit together and on the up and up:

Chris Kapilovic - Associate Head Coach/Co-Offensive Coordinator/Offensive Line Coach
Coach Kap has had his work cut out for him during 4th season in Chapel Hill. As the run game coordinator he's responsible for making sure the men in the trenches carve holes through the front seven. That task is much easier said than done, as Carolina's struggled to establish a consistent run game over the last couple of seasons. He's never been shy to experiment with line ups and shifting players to different positions to find the most co-cohesive unit. An example of this is Carolina's had 7 different players take first team reps as the center this fall.

The Two Deep

Left Tackle
Left Tackle was a position of frsustration for 2014 with no true leader emerging from the position left behind by 4 year starter and current NFLer James Hurst. Part of the consistency issues in 2014 came solely from an inability to have the blind side locked up. But there's hope for 2015

1. Bentley Spain (#75) 6-6 300 lbs Sophomore - Emerging as the starter in Spring Ball, Bentley Spain gives the Carolina faithful hope for the next few years at left tackle. A highly touted recruit from your truly's Alama Mater, THE Providence High School, Spain not only has the athleticism needed to play the tackle position, but also has the nastiness to play in the interior. Spain's potential finally began to show during the healthiest stretch he's had in some time. If this guy can anchor the line, the tackle position shouldn't the concern it was last year.
2. William Sweet (#51) 6-7 300 lbs True Freshman -Spain's backup is no slouch either. Sweet has burst onto campus a big way since showing up undersized in January. Sweet's made the most of the strength and conditioning program and expect this kid to be a factor in the years going forward.

Left Guard
Going into 2015 I was convinced that the Left Guard position would be chiefly in the hands of Jared Cohen. The prediction will not come true this season as Cohen has left the program for personal reasons. While the coaching staff is optimistic for a return in 2016, this left the Left Guard a bit thinner than anticipated.

1. Caleb Peterson (#70) 6-5 300 lbs Redshirt Junior - Caleb Peterson is a two year returning starter who played much of the 2014 season, at least how it looked on film, lost. Whether he suffered from injuries or lack of agression and head games, I couldn't quite figure out where the drop off from year one to year two came. Coach Kap has stressed that Caleb is back to playing his game, which is a good thing because the Tar Heels need his best in 2015.
2. John Ferranto (#77) 6-6 300 lbs Redshirt Junior - Ferranto finds himself at a new position in 2015 after starting at Left Tackle for all of 2014. His versatility has been spoken well about from the UNC Coaching Staff. Ferranto has experience at both guard and tackle positions and should serve as Carolina's Utility Linemen. 

Center
Center looked to be one of the bright spots on Carolina's offensive line heading into fall ball with 2 year returning and All ACC caliber Center Lucas Crowley.

1. Lucas Crowley (#68) 6-3 290 lbs Junior - Unfortunately Fall Ball has not been kind to the returning starter. Crowley's been out since the first week with a nagging ankle injury. The Coaching staff is still going through Game Week prep as if Crowley is the starter. Crowley's health, is the most important piece of this offensive line, even more so than Landon Truner.
2. Tommy Hatton (#52) 6-3 285 lbs True Freshman - Hatton comes to UNC as one of the top OL prospects in the country. The coaches, and this writer, believe he has all of the tools to be one of the best Linemen in the conference before he moves on.

Right Guard
Carolina's starting right Guard has most of the national and ACC Media's attention and it's easy to see why.

1. Landon Turner (#78) 6-4 325 lbs 5th Year Senior - Easily the most decorated of the Carolina Linemen during the pre-season, Turner made about every watch list and Pre Season All American squad that is out there. When Turner is fully engaged and in tune, he's a human wrecking ball. Expect Carolina to run many a dive play off of Landon Turner's outside hip.
2. Brad Henson (#73) 6-5 290 lbs Redshirt Soph - Henson's another one of Carolina's versatile Utility Linemen who has experience at both guard sports and at center. He's been a tad banged up this Fall Camp but expect him to be ready to contribute this season.

Right Tackle
Despite having a returning starter at Right Tackle, I feel much more comfortable with the position Carolina sits at the opposite tackle

1. Jon Heck (#71) 6-7 300 lbs Red Shirt Junior - Sure Heck has the NFL Pedigree (Dad Played in the pros for over a decade). the size and the tools to be a successful college tackle, but he just doesn't see to have "It." He (and Ferranto for that matter) were easily my most critiqued players on the offensive line last year as both of them failed to show the lateral moved needed to play against the ACC Defensive Ends. Word throughout camp has been how much this player has improved. I am prepared to be amazed.
2. RJ Prince (#76) 6-6 325 lbs Redshirt Sophomore - Prince bounced around the depth chart a bit, with getting work in the Defensive Tackle Spot this spring, but has since moved back to his natural position of offensive tackle due to depth concerns. Was thrown into the trenches last year and played a bit lost. Expect most of his PT to come on special teams this year. 

Others

• As mentioned my initial projected starter at LG, Jared Cohen, is currently back home in Maryland for personal reasons. It's unclear whether or not Cohen will make it back to Chapel Hill. The hope is he's back for Spring Ball in 2016. Best of luck to the young man as he sorts some things out.
• Will Dancy  has been sidelined for the year leaving Carolina one less vital backup

As I've said time and time again, the success of the offensive depends on the men up front. The hope is Carolina can stay healthy and develop continuity so Marquise, the Backs and the Receivers can have a field day in 2015.

Defense is up next. 6 days y'all. 

WFP

#UNC 2015 Receivers Preview

Now that we've covered UNC"s Backfield fixtures time to cover the pretty boys of the offense: The Receivers and Tight Ends

In Fedora and Littrell's Spread, Carolina seeks to get the ball to these players quickly in space with the hope, through scheme and play design, creating mismatches and generating big plays. At the Wide Receiver positions Carolina may have as much proven talent as anyone in the conference. Tight End, however, is a completely different story.

Let's take a gander at the guys leading these young men

Position Coaches

Gunter Brewer - Co-Offensive Coordinator/Wide Receivers Coach

• Brewer is currently in his 4th year in Chapel Hill and 9th overall in this role, including a prior stop with Fedora at Oklahoma State 
• Brewer is one of Carolina's top recruiters with Charlotte as his main region of focus
• Often described as a player's coach, and has groomed the likes of Dez Bryant, Randy Moss and Justin Blackmon
• Simply put, Brewer is one of the best in the business at his craft

Seth Littrell - Assistant Head Coach for Offense/Tight Ends Coach

• Second year in Chapel Hill in this role
• Formerly the Indiana OC where they put up big offensive numbers
• Has his work cut out for him as he coaches several unproven Tight End prospects for the 2015 season

Wide Receivers

A Backs

The position that was essentially designed for the Wes Welker's of the world, the A Back is a quasi-slot receiver, quasi running back quasi flanker that is often best thrown to in space where the player has the opportunity to make a splash play. Expect to see a large chunk of the offensive targets to go in the direction of the VERY deep 

1. Ryan Switzer (#3) 5-10 185 lbs Junior - Switzer had a decent Sophomore campaign leading the Tar Heels in Targets, receptions and receiving yardage. However, Switzer's production on offense was masked by his dissapointing season in special teams. RS admitted during Fall Camp that he was trying to do too much with each touch last year rather if it was on offense or defense. Hopefully, a more focused and hungry Junior can't get back to providing the splash plays he showed as a Freshman.
2. Austin Proehl (#7) 5-10 185 lbs Sophomore - Austin Proehl, a fellow product of the GREAT PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PROGRAM (#crib) should be poised for a much larger role his second year in the program. Proehl should get much more PT in year two as the coaching staff tries to give RS a breather.
3. TJ Logan (#8) 5-10 190 lbs Junior - As I mentioned in last year's receivers preview, Logan will be getting run at A Back for another year. Expect to see him in the slot often if Elijah Hood takes over at running back.

**** Romar Morris has been working with the 2s at A Back in fall camp 

Flanker 

Flanker AKA the Z receiver is often known as the straight burner position within the receiving corps. Carolina is very top heavy at the position with the proven experience residing with Mack Hollins. 

1. Mack Hollins (#13) 6-4 210 lbs Redshirt Junior - Hollins became one of the ACC breakout stars of 2014 between his big play making ability and underrated speed. Mack will be looking to capitalize in 2015 behind his relentless work ethic and tenacity during this off season. Often described as one of the most fearless and hardest working individuals on the team, Mack Hollins is the guy who you want in your fox hole. 
2. Damien Washington (#35) 6-1 195 lbs Senior - Washington's main role comes on special teams. He'll serve as the main back up to Mack Hollins during his final season in  Chapel Hill. Expect most of his PT to come in the special teams role.
3. Josh Cabrera (#18) 6-3 205 Redshirt Freshman - Cabrera has the opportunity to make moves in his first season of varsity play. 
4. Devin Perry (#85) 6-2 205 Redshirt Freshman - Much like Josh Cabrera, Perry has the opportunity ti make the most of his time during the limited time he'll see this fall.

Split End 

Split End lines up opposite of the tight end and usually on the line of scrimmage. These players are usually more phycially imposing players than their counter parts, flankers.

1. Quinshad Davis (#14) 6-4 220 Senior - Quinshad Davis, one of the most decorated receivers in UNC history, comes off  off-season surgeries to repair stress fractures in both legs. He's finally back to full speed in fall camp. He's become more of  vocal leader in his final year at Chapel Hill. He attributes his sound mind his this year to his injury that knocked him out of the winter and spring, telling Inside Carolina "every day is a blessing ..., that could have been the end of my career."
2. Jonathan "Bug" Howard (#84) 6-5 215 Junior - Arguably the most athletic member of the receiving corps, Howard looks to build on his successful sophomore campaign. This kid is Carolina's biggest red zone threat and is a match up nightmare for every DB in the conference. 
3. Jordan Fielleteau (#88) 6-3 210 RS Soph - Quinshad Davis believes Filleteau is poised to have a breakout season his third year in Chapel Hill. The local product from Durham has yet to make a splash on campus since arriving as a highly touted recruit.
4. Dalton Stogner (#89) 6-4 200 lbs Junior - Stogner is a player that every coach wishes they had. Tremendous student, fierce competitor who is all over the field on special teams.

Tight Ends

1. Kendrick Singleton (#81) 6-2 215 lbs Senior - Singleton has played out of position for much of his time in Chapel Hill, but finally found some staying power at Tight End this past season. An excellent blocker, "Bull" Singleton is the guy you want on the edge with pads on pads in the run game
2. Brandon Fitts (#82) 6-4 245 lbs Redshirt Frosh - Fitts will be Carolina's traditional tight end, as he's the one most naturally geared for the position. He should give Marquise a big target, even in his first year. 
3. Caleb Samuel (#83) 6-5 275 lbs Redshirt Frosh - Samuel was sick for most of the spring so his transition to offensive line became incomplete as he lost of most of the weight he had put on during his transition. Should be excellent option at the goal line.
4. Carl Tucker (#86) 6-2 240 lbs Freshman - Likely red-shirting

This group of receivers has the opportunity to be the best since Fedora set foot on campus. Judging that a threat in the seams in the form of a big bodied tight end emerges, the perimeter could really open up for the likes of Switzer, Bug, Quinshad and Mack.

The Offensive Line ins up next.