North Carolina vs. West Virginia Short Report | Dec 27, 2023
Bank of America Stadium
Charlotte, NC
Dec 27, 2023
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Game Recap
The West Virginia Mountaineers secured a decisive 30-10 victory against the North Carolina Tar Heels in the Duke's Mayo Bowl, played at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Garrett Greene ignited the game with a 75-yard touchdown pass to Traylon Ray on the very first play, setting the Mountaineers ahead right from the start. Despite North Carolina responding with a field goal and a touchdown in the second quarter, West Virginia's Beanie Bishop Jr. restored their advantage with a thrilling 78-yard punt return for a touchdown.
WVU controlled the second half, adding a field goal and a touchdown, while their defense shut down the Tar Heels, keeping them scoreless after halftime. Key performances included Garrett Greene, who not only threw for 228 yards but also executed critical plays, and Beanie Bishop Jr., whose punt return was instrumental. Greene's leadership prevailed despite the absence of key players, and the defense's seven sacks stifled North Carolina's offensive efforts. This victory capped a season of exceeding expectations for the Mountaineers.
Key Plays:
Garrett Greene (West Virginia Mountaineers)
On the first play from scrimmage, Garrett Greene connected with Traylon Ray on a 75-yard touchdown pass, setting the pace with an early lead of 7-0.
Noah Burnette (North Carolina Tar Heels)
Noah Burnette kicked a 28-yard field goal to put UNC on the board, narrowing the deficit to 7-3. This scoring play was a culmination of a 14-play, 45-yard drive lasting 7 minutes and 13 seconds.
Beanie Bishop Jr. (West Virginia Mountaineers)
Beanie Bishop Jr. returned a punt for 78 yards, shifting the momentum with a touchdown that extended WVU's lead to 14-3. It marked WVU's first punt return touchdown in a bowl game.
Conner Harrell (North Carolina Tar Heels)
Conner Harrell hit J.J. Jones with a 16-yard pass for a touchdown, concluding a swift five-play, 76-yard drive in just 58 seconds, reducing WVU's lead to 14-10.
Michael Hayes (West Virginia Mountaineers)
Michael Hayes kicked a 34-yard field goal, increasing WVU's lead to 20-10. This capped an eight-play, 54-yard drive that further extended their advantage.
Jahiem White (West Virginia Mountaineers)
Jahiem White rushed for an 11-yard touchdown, pushing the score to 27-10. This drive was highlighted by a 48-yard run by Greene, setting up White's score.
Michael Hayes (West Virginia Mountaineers)
Michael Hayes added a 29-yard field goal, finalizing the 30-10 victory for WVU. Hayes' third field goal of the game cemented the Mountaineers' win.
Standout Players:
Garrett Greene (West Virginia Mountaineers, QB)
Garrett Greene passed for 228 yards and a touchdown while adding 64 rushing yards. His leadership and playmaking were pivotal, including an impressive opening 75-yard touchdown pass.
Traylon Ray (West Virginia Mountaineers, WR)
Traylon Ray made a significant impact with 3 catches for 91 yards, including a 75-yard touchdown that set the tone early for WVU's offense.
Beanie Bishop Jr. (West Virginia Mountaineers, CB)
Beanie Bishop Jr. excelled not only with a 78-yard punt return touchdown but also contributed defensively with 7 tackles and key coverage plays.
Jahiem White (West Virginia Mountaineers, RB)
Jahiem White brought dynamism to the ground game with 50 rushing yards. His 11-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter sealed the victory for the Mountaineers.
Michael Hayes (West Virginia Mountaineers, K)
Michael Hayes scored 9 points, converting 3 out of 4 field goal attempts and making all extra points. His consistency was crucial in maintaining and extending the lead.
Conner Harrell (North Carolina Tar Heels, QB)
Conner Harrell showed resilience in his first career start, throwing for 199 yards and a touchdown. Despite two interceptions, he displayed potential and mobility with 37 rushing yards.
J.J. Jones (North Carolina Tar Heels, WR)
J.J. Jones had 4 receptions for 53 yards, including a critical 16-yard touchdown catch that brought UNC close before halftime.
References:
University of North Carolina Athletics
University of North Carolina Athletics
North Carolina Tar Heels vs. West Virginia Mountaineers Live Score and Stats - December 27, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
UNC vs. West Virginia: Three Things Learned - Tar Heel Blog
The Day After: West Virginia football vs. North Carolina - WVSports: West Virginia Mountaineers Football & Basketball Recruiting
UNC vs. West Virginia: How to Watch - Tar Heel Blog
Team
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North Carolina Tar Heels
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10
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West Virginia Mountaineers
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