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| Thursday, May 3 Defense looks like team's strength By Brad Edwards Special to ESPN.com |
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Conference: 3-5 (t-6th) Returning starters Offense: 6 Defense: 6 Kickers: 2 2000 statistical leaders (* - returners) Rushing: Brandon Russell* (508 yds) Passing: Ronald Curry* (2,325 yds) Receiving: Bosley Allen* (634 yds) Tackles: Brandon Spoon (131) Sacks: Julius Peppers* (15) Interceptions: Errol Hood* (2) What's new John Bunting is the Tar Heels' new head coach and brings in six new assistants, including both coordinators. Gary Tranquill will run the offense which plans to be more aggressive and pass downfield more often. The defense should still be the strength of the team under new coordinator Jon Tenuta. Battling it out UNC must replace two tight ends who were selected in the NFL Draft. Doug Brown and Zach Hilton have primarily been special teams players but will now look to become an offensive starter. For now, coaches are calling it an even race. Neither has made a catch in a college game. Eye catcher: RB Andre Williams Williams was the team's third running back last year but had an outstanding spring that has put him in contention for the starting spot. He is the type of physical runner that Bunting is looking for in his offense, and Williams certainly didn't hurt his case with 15 carries for 88 yards in the spring game. Budding star: DT Ryan Sims He might already be one of the top defensive tackles in the ACC but is overshadowed on his own defensive line by Julius Peppers. Sims had nine tackles for loss last year, including six sacks. He was the top performer in the weight room this spring and seems ready for a breakout year in 2001. Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
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