Jahvaree Ritzie proves to be UNC's defensive difference-maker in win over Minnesota
I'm still in shock about how UNC escaped Minnesota with a 19-17, season-opening victory that came down to the final whistle.
The Golden Gophers enjoyed a couple of chunks plays to set up their game-winning field goal attempt, only for Dragan Kesich to miss his second kick. North Carolina, on the contrary, enjoyed a perfect night from kicker Noah Burnette.
There was another Tar Heel – on the defensive side of the ball – who played a near-perfect game.
That Tar Heel was defensive tackle Jahvaree Ritzie, who led all players with three sacks and tackles for loss apiece. Ritzie eclipsed his career sack total in just one game, as Ritzie had 2.5 sacks combined in his first three UNC seasons.
Ritzie was North Carolina's leader at the line of scrimmage, constantly disrupting Minnesota's rhythm by bursting through its offensive line, even if he didn't record a sack or tackle. Ritzie's production showed how good of a defensive unit the Tar Heels can carry throughout the fall, particularly under new defensive coordinator Geoff Collins.
Check out Ritzie's postgame interview below, in which he took a humble approach but was proud of UNC's effort:
Ritzie gets another golden chance to lead North Carolina at the line of scrimmage on Saturday, Sept. 7, as the Tar Heels return to Kenan Stadium for their home opener against Charlotte.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire : Jahvaree Ritzie proves to be UNC's defensive difference-maker in win over Minnesota
