Tar Heels Fall to Duke, Season Ends Below .500
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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The University of North Carolina tar Heels concluded their home schedule with a 32-25 defeat at the hands of the duke Blue Devils on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Kenan Stadium. The loss drops UNC to a 4-7 overall record, guaranteeing a losing season for the program.
the rivalry game was marked by heightened emotion, resulting in multiple penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct assessed to both teams. Several minor altercations occurred during kickoffs, especially in the early stages of the contest. This outcome means UNC will not retain the Victory bell for a second consecutive year.
first-Half Control by Duke
Both teams demonstrated offensive efficiency early, scoring touchdowns on their opening possessions. Duke established control of the game’s tempo in the first half,maintaining possession for 18 minutes compared to UNC’s 12. The Blue Devils orchestrated lengthy drives of 10, 13, and 14 plays, building a 17-10 lead by halftime.
UNC Battles Back, Briefly Takes Lead
Trailing 17-10 late in the third quarter, North Carolina mounted a persistent nine-play, 91-yard drive that extended into the fourth quarter. the drive culminated in a 12-yard touchdown run by Davion Gause, giving the Tar Heels a 26-25 lead – only the second time this season UNC has taken the lead after falling behind.
Duke’s Deceptive Play Seals Victory
Duke executed a pivotal and unexpected play late in the fourth quarter. Facing a fourth-down situation, the Blue Devils faked a field goal attempt. Punter Kade Reynoldson delivered a short pass to kicker Todd Pelino, who advanced 26 yards to the UNC 1-yard line. This daring play set up a go-ahead touchdown run by Anderson Castle, and a successful two-point conversion secured a 32-25 victory for Duke.
Did You Know?
This was only the second game all season where UNC took a lead after trailing earlier in the game.
Penalties Hamper Tar Heels
Discipline proved to be a notable issue for North Carolina, as 12 penalties resulted in 107 yards of lost yardage.These infractions impacted both the offense and defense throughout the game.
Looking Ahead to N.C. State
North carolina will conclude its regular season next Saturday with a road contest against N.C. State at Carter-finley Stadium.The Tar Heels will attempt to break a four-game losing streak against the Wolfpack, who enter the game with a 6-5 record.
| Statistic | UNC | Duke |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 25 | 32 |
| Overall Record | 4-7 | 6-5 |
| First Downs | 22 | 25 |
| Total Yards | 388 | 418 |
| Penalties | 12 – 107 yds | 7 – 65 yds |
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on the UNC vs. NC State rivalry – it’s one of the most heated in college football!
What are your thoughts on UNC’s performance this season? Do you think they can upset NC State next week?
“We didn’t execute well enough in key moments, and Duke made the plays when they needed to.” – UNC Head Coach Mack Brown (post-game press conference, November 23, 2024)
UNC Football: A Ancient overview
The University of North Carolina Tar Heels football program has a rich history dating back to 1888. The program has claimed six national championships (1946, 1947, 1950, 1967, 1971, 1980) and has produced numerous NFL players. The rivalry with Duke, known as the victory Bell game, is one of the oldest and most storied in college football, dating back to 1888. Recent seasons have seen periods of both success and rebuilding, with the program consistently aiming to compete for ACC championships and national prominence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Victory Bell? The Victory Bell is a trophy awarded annually to the winner of the UNC-Duke football game.
- What is UNC’s current football record? As of November 23, 2024, UNC’s football record is 4-7.
- Who did UNC lose to on november 23, 2024? UNC lost to Duke with a final score of 32-25.
- when is UNC’s next football game? UNC’s next game is against N.C. State next Saturday.
- How many penalties did UNC have in the Duke game? UNC had 12 penalties for a total of 107 yards.
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