Minnesota vs. North Carolina Short Report | Sep 16, 2023
Kenan Memorial Stadium
Chapel Hill, NC
Sep 16, 2023
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Game Recap
In a commanding display, the North Carolina Tar Heels triumphed over the Minnesota Golden Gophers with a 31-13 victory. The Tar Heels initiated the game with a powerful 46-yard touchdown pass from Drake Maye to Nate McCollum within the first quarter, setting an energetic tone that persisted throughout the game. Despite efforts from the Golden Gophers, including a determined ground performance from Darius Taylor, they could not surmount the vigorous North Carolina defense.
Drake Maye performed exceptionally, amassing 414 passing yards and throwing two touchdowns, though hampered by two interceptions. North Carolina's consistent offensive drives and resolute defensive stands, highlighted by Power Echols' impactful interception, established their control. Minnesota's lone touchdown by Taylor showcased his prowess, but it encapsulated the broader challenge against a robust Tar Heel squad. The game was punctuated by dramatic interceptions, strategic touchdowns, and solid point defenses from both teams, reflecting highly competitive collegiate football.
Key Plays:
Nate McCollum (North Carolina)
Drake Maye connected with Nate McCollum for a thrilling 46-yard touchdown pass, propelling the Tar Heels to an early advantage.
Omarion Hampton (North Carolina)
Omarion Hampton powered through Minnesota's defensive line for a critical 1-yard touchdown run, cementing a 14-0 lead early in the second quarter.
Power Echols (North Carolina)
Linebacker Power Echols intercepted a pass, stalling the Golden Gophers' offensive drive and boosting the Tar Heels' momentum.
Dragan Kesich (Minnesota)
Dragan Kesich's 23-yard field goal provided Minnesota's first points, narrowing the Tar Heels' lead.
Bryson Nesbit (North Carolina)
Bryson Nesbit received a 19-yard touchdown pass, extending the Tar Heels' lead to 21-3 and applying pressure on Minnesota's defense.
Darius Taylor (Minnesota)
Darius Taylor’s 2-yard touchdown rush brought Minnesota closer, reducing North Carolina’s lead to 21-10 just before halftime.
Noah Burnette (North Carolina)
Noah Burnette split the uprights with a 42-yard field goal, extending the Tar Heels' lead to 24-13 in the third quarter.
British Brooks (North Carolina)
British Brooks' 1-yard rushing touchdown sealed the victory for North Carolina, concluding the scoring at 31-13.
Standout Players:
Drake Maye (North Carolina, QB)
Maye showcased his skill with 414 yards and two touchdowns, effectively leading the offensive charge and enduring despite two interceptions, setting the rhythm for North Carolina’s victory.
Nate McCollum (North Carolina, WR)
McCollum was instrumental with 15 catches totaling 165 yards and a vital touchdown, becoming a pivotal weapon in the Tar Heels' receiving corps.
Darius Taylor (Minnesota, RB)
Taylor's vigorous rushes accumulated 138 yards and a touchdown, asserting his role as the backbone of the Gophers’ ground game.
Power Echols (North Carolina, LB)
Echols' interception and seven solo tackles were central to halting Minnesota’s advances, epitomizing defensive grit.
Noah Burnette (North Carolina, K)
Burnette's reliable foot ensured a 42-yard field goal and perfect extra points, underpinning North Carolina’s scoring efforts.
Jack Henderson (Minnesota, DB)
Henderson’s key interception and 17-yard return ignited defensive momentum for the Golden Gophers.
References:
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Minnesota Golden Gophers
0
10
3
0
13
North Carolina Tar Heels
7
14
3
7
31
