KEY EARLY-SEASON GAME: vs. Virginia Tech, Sept. 9 -- After opening against an improved Rutgers team the week before, the Tar Heels jump into league play against defending division champ Virginia Tech their next outing. The Heels were competitive for a half against the Hokies last season. Getting them at Chapel Hill could make the difference, especially since the Hokies may have some unanswered questions lingering about their quarterback.

THE TAR HEELS WILL SUCCEED IF
The defense continues the improvement it showed in 2005, and either Joe Dailey or Cam Sexton steps up at quarterback.

THE TAR HEELS WILL FAIL IF
The early-season schedule puts them in an early hole they can't climb out of. After facing Virginia Tech at home in the second game, the Heels get Furman at home but then must go on the road for back-to-back games against Clemson and Miami. A 1-4 start could put the Heels in a hopeless hole with games against Georgia Tech and Notre Dame still to come.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"Not even close. Not even close. We have more speed, more quickness, more size and more toughness." - Coach John Bunting, asked to compare the current team with the one from three years ago.

Copyright (C) 2006 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.