Key UNC Pass-Catcher Helping to Spark Offense

The North Carolina Tar Heels came very close to pulling off the upset of the top-seeded Miami Hurricanes last week, falling 38-35.

This was the second time this season that the Tar Heels almost took down a top-ranked team, with the group coming close to knocking off Notre Dame earlier in the year. The performances in the two games proves that North Carolina could be a good team, but the group just need to learn how to close.

North Carolina's offense has started to come together after a shaky start to the season, with the unit figuring some things out. Quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. has looked much stronger of late, showing some real confidence out on the field.

Last week against the Hurricanes, Edwards threw for 341 yards with four touchdowns, marking the third straight game without an interception thrown. Edwards has been flinging the ball all over the field, with his tight ends becoming a major part of the offensive game plan.

The tight end group for North Carolina has been impressive this season, with them becoming a top unit. Overall, tight ends for the Tar Heels have combined for 51 catches for 651 yards and eight touchdowns.

But a few weeks ago, the team got back tight end Jordan Washington following a brutal injury in the spring. Washington tore his ACL after his knee went out on a tackle during spring practice

Washington had been expected to be a major part of the North Carolina offense this year, making the injury a tough one for the team. But the veteran was able to return a few weeks ago, providing a boost to the pass-catchers.

So far this season, Washington has caught three passes for 23 yards, but his presence out on the field is huge for this team. Having another tight end for Edwards to throw the ball to can help, and the offense should be able to keep rolling.

While the numbers haven't been eye-popping for Washington so far, the veteran is trying to ramp back up fully. His quick recovery has been incredible to watch play out, but it could take some time to get back to full strength.

Washington is looking forward to the challenge of helping the Tar Heels' offense keep going for the rest of the year, and he gives Edwards more weapons to work with. North Carolina has been happy with his recovery, and over the final few games, Washington wants to show what he can do on the field.