Miami's big-time players made big-time plays in win at North Carolina

Miami Hurricanes legend Santana Moss once said, "Big-time players make big-time plays in big-time games." Miami's big-time players made big-time plays late in the game as the Hurricanes survived to win 38-35 at North Carolina on Saturday night. 

No. 1 Miami will take an 8-0 record to Notre Dame next week.

Miami struggled throughout the game defensively at North Carolina but forced a critical fumble late in the fourth quarter. Miami edge-rusher Marquise Lightfoot had a strip-sack of North Carolina quarterback Billy Edwards, which was recovered by Hurricanes defensive tackle Justin Scott at the Tar Heels' 37-yard line with 5:33 left in the fourth quarter.

Miami went 37 yards in six plays that culminated in a nine-yard touchdown pass from Darian Mensah to Malachi Toney with 2:33 left in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to 38-28. North Carolina answered with a five-play, 75-yard drive in 55 seconds to cut their deficit to 38-35 with 1:38 remaining.

After North Carolina recovered two onside kicks that were called back because of penalties, Miami recovered on the third attempt. Following two running plays, Mensah took a knee and Miami escaped with the win. Miami improved to 8-0 for the second time in the last three seasons.