Tar Heels Escape with Victory, Edge Golden Gophers

© Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

The North Carolina Tar Heels, despite losing quarterback Max Johnson to injury, escaped with a 19-17 win on Aug. 30 against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The game, which was played at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, featured strong defensive performances by both teams.

The Tar Heels relied on the leg of kicker Noah Burnette, who converted on four field goals in the game.

Game Summary

After a scoreless first quarter, the Golden Gophers and Tar Heels exchanged touchdowns en route to a 14-7 Minnesota halftime lead. In the second half, the Tar Heels got within a point thanks to two Burnette field goals. Both teams traded field goals in the fourth quarter. But Burnette nailed a 45-yard field goal for North Carolina. It proved to be the game winner. The Golden Gophers had one last chance to win it. Dragan Kesich's 30-yard field goal with 3:40 left in the fourth gave Minnesota a lead. Kesich tried from 47 yards out with time running out, but his kick went wide right.

Turning Point

Johnson was carted off the field with a knee injury. No word about the extent of his injury has been shared as of Aug. 30. North Carolina head coach Mack Brown may have more information on Aug. 30. Redshirt sophomore Connor Harrell came on to lead the Tar Heels' offense. All-Atlantic Coast Conference running back Omarion Hampton wore down the Minnesota defense. He had 30 carries for 129 yards, putting up timely yards for the Tar Heels.

North Carolina defensive end Jahvaree Ritzie had a disruptive performance. Ritzie finished with 6 tackles and 3 of the Tar Heels' 5 sacks. For the Golden Gophers, linebackers Cody Lindenberg and Maverick Baranowski recorded 21 tackles collectively.

The Tar Heels generated enough pressure on Minnesota quarterback Max Brosmer. They held him to 166 yards and no touchdowns.

What it Means

While the Tar Heels won, Johnson's injury looms large. It's possible that he might miss some games. In Harrell, North Carolina has a quarterback familiar with the offense and its playmakers. He backed up last season's starter Drake Maye, who's now with the NFL's New England Patriots. On Sept. 7, the Tar Heels have a clash with the Charlotte 49ers.

© Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

For Minnesota and head coach P.J. Fleck, an opening loss isn't the end of the world. A foundation can be built on Brosmer's performance. Brosmer averaged 8 yards per pass attempt. He showed that he could handle future challenges at the FBS level. Brosmer showed composure in leading the Golden Gophers. It looked like he was in his element. On Sept. 7, Minnesota will go up against the Rhode Island Rams.