A major reason behind the North Carolina Tar Heels’ 2-0 start to the college football season is star kicker Noah Burnette, who was a perfect 5-for-5 on kicks in UNC’s season-opening victory at Minnesota.
Burnette was near-automatic in North Carolina’s win over Charlotte last week, converting all four extra points and a 44-yard field goal, but he also missed his first kick of the year.
In today’s Week 3 matchup against NC Central, though, it doesn’t look like Burnette will be available.
Instead, the Tar Heels will likely roll with Liam Boyd, the Clemson transfer who arrived in Chapel Hill before the 2023 season.
Boyd relieved Burnette late last week, converting his first collegiate kick after Davion Gause’s fourth-quarter touchdown run. Boyd is a Tar Heel State product originally, hailing from Asheville High School. Boyd converted 11-of-13 field goals during his senior season, including a 50-year, while also playing soccer his first three years.
#UNC kicker Noah Burnette isn't in pads. He has a large wrap on his right knee.
2nd team All-ACC last year. Missed his last kick vs. Charlotte last week, and Liam Boyd ended up kicking Carolina's final extra point of the day.
— Michael Koh (@michaelkohwchl) September 14, 2024
North Carolina should be able to score touchdowns at ease today, but if drives stall, Boyd has to be on his game. NC Central is 1-1, winning its season-opener at Alabama State, but losing to Elon by 22 last week.
Keep an eye out on Boyd and if he plays a major role in the Tar Heels’ Week 3 outcome.
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