Mack Brown and the UNC football program is hoping that the offense will see the return of wide receiver Josh Downs in Week 4 against Notre Dame.
As of Monday, the plan is that Downs will return to practice this week and is ‘on track’ to play in Week 4. That’s barring any setback that he may have throughout the week.
But for the Fighting Irish, they are preparing as if Downs will play and head coach Marcus Freeman knows just how impactful he can be.
During his media session on Monday, Freeman was asked about Downs and his potential return. He had nothing but praise for the receiver:
Freeman on defending UNC WR Josh Downs: I don't know if you can completely shut down Josh Downs.
We can't let Josh Downs get his…have to find ways to limit what he does after the catch.
Will be a huge challenge for us.
— Irish Sports Daily (@ISDUpdate) September 19, 2022
Downs has played in just one game for the Tar Heels this season before getting hurt late in the win over Florida A&M. He’s missed the previous two games with that lower leg injury and UNC has survived without him.
There’s no doubt that Downs is UNC’s best player on offense and he can make a big difference in a game like this for the Tar Heels. Now, let’s just hope he does return this Saturday.
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