Not going to vote because I really don't know how the game is going to go but my feeling is it with be either option 1 or option 2. I don't expect to see a blowout either way.
I'll bite. Went with a close win because I hope that this is the first 2023 game in which we run a balanced offense that doesn't telegraph plays in advance to the defense ... and that we execute. If our offense can exploit a shaky NC defense, and can actually score touchdowns in the red zone, I believe we can overcome the offensive output to be expected from UNC's offense (because our defense looks to be pretty good and should suppress that output somewhat). If our offense performs on par with the past two weeks, however, I suspect we lose ... unless our defense and special teams mimic Iowa's and produce some TDs and/or very short fields all by themselves.
No result would surprise me. We will know a lot more about both teams with a third data point after inconclusive 2-0 starts. I hope the gophers are able to play loose (in their own fashion). There is very little to lose playing on the road at a quality non-conference opponent.
Watched Mack Brown's Weekly Press Conference ahead of the Minnesota game. Here are some notes from the 44 minute press conference. Apologies for any grammar mistakes. Wrote this up quickly. Here are my notes from it below... Offers his thoughts and prayers on 9/11. Shares a story about his...
Don’t want to correct the NC coach, but his OL is as big as ours. Only difference is at RG, where we have stashed giant Martes Lewis. If Cody L is back and at full speed, I like our chances to rein in NC’s offense. If CrAB plays, and is a full speed, I like our chances to run a balanced offense. GO Gophers!
I think our chances go up if Elijah Spenser starts to flash what he showed in the spring game. And look to Le’meke B a little more. And Tyler, looks good but hold onto the dang ball.