Through three games in the 2024 college football season, we’ve seen the North Carolina Tar Heels’ offense struggle at times.
Max Johnson, Conner Harrell and Jacolby Criswell have all appeared in games, with Johnson starting the opener at Minnesota and Harrell starting the past two. Criswell entered tonight’s game against NC Central during UNC’s third drive, but stayed in because he played so well (started 5-for-5).
North Carolina continues to score, despite its offense struggles. in large part thanks to star running back Omarion Hampton.
Hampton ran for over 100 yards at Minnesota, then missed the second half against Charlotte with an injury he could’ve returned from.
Tonight against NC Central, Hampton found the end zone three times and ran for 210 yards on 25 carries. It was Hampton’s second career 200-yard game, as he previously ran for 234 yards in the Tar Heels’ double-overtime win over App State last season.
“It felt good being there for my team,” Hampton said in regards to leading UNC’s offense. “And then my O-line especially they did good tonight, just them having my back. And then just practicing all week getting ready and prepared for this game. We know what we have to do when it comes down to close games. We know when we have to get the first down. I know what I have to do.”
If you look at ESPN’s current rushing leaders, Hampton should now be second nationally with 416 rushing yards.
What can Hampton do next Saturday against James Madison, which allows an average of 120 rushing yards to opponents?
Follow us @TarHeelsWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of North Carolina Tar Heels news, notes and opinions.