Boston College at North Carolina: UNC Offense vs. BC Defense

Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Has it been all bad for the Tar Heels on offense? Of course not, and by and large, senior quarterback Bryn Renner has not been struggling. In fact, he had a rather respectable game against the Miami Hurricanes last Thursday, aside from an interception. However, here is a brief summary of the changes in North Carolina’s offensive production from last season to this one:

• 17 fewer points per game in 2013 so far, dropping from 8th in FBS to 93rd
• 75 fewer yards per game, falling from 14th-most productive offense to 70th
• 93 fewer rushing yards per game, dropping from 33rd to 115th
• 1.25 more sacks allowed per game, falling from tied for 11th to tied for 84th

North Carolina is better in the red zone, a little better on third downs, and has a good passing game, but all of that is probably small comfort considering that the unit as a whole is not nearly as productive as it used to be. Yesterday, we saw that the Tar Heels defense has sharply declined, but the offense, while not the bigger of North Carolina’s two problems, has not always been helpful.

The disappearance of North Carolina’s run game has hurt them badly. At just 2.92 yards per carry (117th in FBS), they’re not extending or grinding out drives and that shows in time of possession as well. The Tar Heels are 114th in the country there, holding onto the football for an average of 26:52 per game.

The Heels are starting two redshirt freshmen on their offensive line, plus a sophomore who only had four starts to his credit prior to this season. Left tackle James Hurst is the most experienced starter on the whole team and by far the most well-regarded offensive lineman they have. Some mock drafts put him in the first round while others potentially see him as a solid second-day pick. Boston College will have to watch out for him, specifically right defensive end Kasim Edebali. Edebali has had a good year so far for the Eagles, leading the team in sacks and tackles for a loss, though he will draw a tough assignment this week.

One thing working to the Eagles’ favor here is that North Carolina is giving up more sacks than they did last season. Whereas they were previously tops in the ACC in terms of fewest sacks allowed per game, they’re now letting Renner hit the turf several times per game.  Likewise, Boston College is now much better at this aspect of the game, and they will blitz often.

The Heels have gotten good production out of the tight end spot this season, particularly junior Eric Ebron. He leads the team in receiving yards with 532 and has scored three touchdowns.

Final Evaluation

The numbers have not been great for either the Tar Heels or the Eagles. Few can argue that Boston College did not acquit themselves well in their most recent game against Clemson, while North Carolina was at least in the game against Miami. Both units have struggled to some extent, though there are things to like and dislike from each.

On Boston College’s end, they’ve gotten improved line play, the linebackers have been solid, and they’re mixing up their looks to keep the opposition guessing, but compared to the rest of the conference, there is still a long way to go. As for North Carolina, their quarterback has been the least of their problems and there are talented receivers, but North Carolina no longer has a viable run game and there is plenty of inexperience on the offensive line.

Neither team clearly stands out here. Toss-up.