The North Carolina Tar Heels are hoping that an easier schedule than they've seen each of the past 2 seasons will get them to a bowl game in 2006. The Tar Heels do get to play their first 3 games at Kenan Stadium, but trips to Clemson, Miami, and Notre Dame don't expect to be fun visits.
In 2005, the Tar Heels offense was almost non existent. They finished outside the top 100 in yards and points per game. North Carolina faithful are hoping a new offensive coordinator and Quarterback will revitalize the Tar Heels' offensive attack. Frank Cignetti, the former Fresno State mastermind will take over for Gary Tranquill, whose offenses took after his last name. Either Nebraska transfer, Joe Dailey or redshirt freshman Cam Sexton will take over under center. Sexton is the better passer, but Dailey already has a year of experience as a starter under his belt at Nebraska and is more elusive. I think right now Dailey will be the better fit for the Tarheels, but Cignetti might be leaning toward Sexton as he has a high-octane offense in mind resembling the one he built at Fresno State. However, it doesn't appear that the Tar Heels have the personnel right now to be successful in Cignetti long range passing attack as they only have 1 receiver on their team who has ever caught a pass in a college game. The running attack could be a strength though, and Cignetti should mix in some option plays if he decides to go with Dailey. Senior tailback Ronnie McGill has the potential for a 1,000 yard season running behind an experienced left side of the O-line.
SEASON 3 PREMIERE
Although, the Tar Heels are hoping for big improvements on the offensive side of the ball in 2006, It was the North Carolina defense which spurred them to a big win over Boston College last season and kept them in games with Georgia Tech. Maryland, and Wisconsin. In a big rebuilding year for the offense, the defense will be expected to come up big in 2006 if the Tar Heels want to get to a bowl. A strong secondary, led my playmaking safeties Kareen Taylor and Trimane Goddard, will be the strength of the defensive unit. A lack of depth up front will be the Tar Heels biggest downfall, but if they can stay healthy, I expect the defense to keep North Carolina in most games again this season.
Special teams is also a place where the Heels could make up some ground against their opponents this season. Connor Barth was 14-18 on field goals last year and sophomore Brandon Tate is one of the best, if not the best, kick returners in the ACC.
Ultimately, I'll be surprised if the Heels can sneak into a bowl game. Another 5-win season appears to be on the horizon.
North Carolina Tar Heels Season Predictions SEASON 3 PREMIERE
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