North Carolina Prepares for Gator Bowl, Works on Special Teams and Defense

As North Carolina prepares to face off against Virginia Tech in the Gator Bowl, the Tar Heels have been emphasizing special teams and defense in their practice sessions. Despite the heavy rains that forced them to practice on fields at San Pablo Elementary School, the team has been working on perfecting their defense against the run, an area where they have excelled this season. The Tar Heels' defense has been ranked fourth in the nation in rushing defense, allowing a mere 77.9 yards per game.

Key Takeaways:

• North Carolina has been practicing special teams and defense in preparation for the Gator Bowl, with a focus on run defense.
• The Tar Heels' defense has been ranked fourth in the nation in rushing defense, allowing 77.9 yards per game.
• North Carolina has had four punts blocked this season, while Virginia Tech has blocked seven.
• The team has been working on defense against the option, an offense they rarely faced this season.
• North Carolina center Jeff Saturday and corner back Robert Williams are both recovering from minor injuries.
• Starting fullback Deon Dyer will be out for the game due to a fractured fibula, and will be replaced by redshirt freshman Ronnie Robinson.
• North Carolina coach Carl Torbush has praised Virginia Tech's special teams, led by coach Frank Beamer.

Statistics:

• North Carolina has allowed 77.9 yards per game in rushing defense, ranking fourth in the nation.
• Virginia Tech has blocked seven punts this season, while North Carolina has had four punts blocked.
• The Tar Heels' defense has been working extensively against the option, an offense they rarely saw this season.
• Robert Williams, North Carolina's starting corner back, has only done running exercises since reporting to practice on Saturday due to his involvement in a car accident.

Sources:

• Fox-30 News at Ten
• UNC Sports updates