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2h ago

UNC Expected to Start Max Johnson vs. Clemson as Gio Lopez Doubtful

Lopez’s injury has UNC turning to a veteran passer to steady a sputtering offense.

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Aug 29, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Max Johnson (14) celebrates his rushing touchdown against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first half at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Multiple outlets report Bill Belichick is trending toward naming sixth‑year quarterback Max Johnson the starter for North Carolina’s ACC opener against Clemson.
  • ESPN’s Pete Thamel reports Johnson will start with Gio Lopez available as the backup, while UNC is set to issue an official availability update shortly before the noon ET kickoff.
  • Lopez, a South Alabama transfer, suffered a lower‑body injury at UCF on Sept. 20 and was unable to practice during the bye; he moved from questionable to doubtful on Friday, per reports.
  • Johnson has completed 20 of 30 passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns in relief this season, returning from a 2024 leg injury that required multiple surgeries after his Week 1 start.
  • UNC ranks near the bottom nationally in passing and overall production, raising expectations for Johnson as Belichick faces Dabo Swinney in a closely watched conference matchup.