
It's finally time to see how the changes the North Carolina Tar Heels orchestrated this offseason will affect the product on the field.
North Carolina’s season begins against TCU in Dublin, Ireland, on Saturday, a rematch from last season when the Horned Frogs defeated the Tar Heels 48-14 in Chapel Hill. With that in mind, here are projections for a handful of North Carolina's offensive players.
The Wisconsin transfer will make his Tar Heels debut on Saturday, and he will be one of the most anticipated players to watch. Edwards Jr. is facing immense pressure to deliver right away, and with offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino calling plays, that scrutiny intensifies.
Fans shouldn't expect Edwards Jr. to light up TCU's defense, especially with Petrino's emphasis on establishing the rushing attack. Unless the game gets out of hand, North Carolina will likely lean on Demon June and Benjamin Hall.
Shipp was the clear top pass-catching option for the Tar Heels in 2025, and that will be the case again this season. Because Edwards Jr. is entering his first start as the Tar Heels' quarterback, Shipp will be peppered with targets as the most trustworthy option in the passing attack.
While the collection of talent assembled in the pass-catching department could take away opportunities from Shipp, the 6-foot-2, 200-pound receiver will benefit from having more space to operate.
North Carolina's focal point on offense will be the run game, as mentioned earlier. June is projected to be the Tar Heels' RB1 this season, and behind a revamped offensive line, the 5-foot-11, 215-pound running back should continue to replicate his efficiency from last season.
June averaged 5.5 yards per carry in 2025, and while that is difficult to replicate, the sophomore running back has the skill set to be productive. Weather could also play a role in the game script on Saturday, giving Petrino even more reason to lean on the rushing attack.
In 2025, the Lehigh transfer averaged 18.6 yards per reception. If this projection is correct, Humphrey would average 13 yards per catch. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound wide receiver will stretch the field and open up space in the intermediate areas.
As mentioned, weather could affect Petrino's play-calling, so we could see North Carolina's pass game be limited.
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