Miami survives late surge to defeat North Carolina
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (AP) — No. 1 Miami escaped with a hard-fought 38-35 victory over North Carolina on Saturday night, maintaining their undefeated record. A decisive 2-yard touchdown run by Mark Fletcher Jr. late in the fourth quarter, coupled with a crucial fumble recovery, proved to be the difference for the Hurricanes (8-0, 6-0 Atlantic Coast Conference).
After Fletcher’s score, a combined effort by Marquise Lightfoot and Justin Scott resulted in a pivotal turnover, stripping North Carolina quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. and recovering the fumble. This sequence allowed Miami to extend their lead with a 9-yard touchdown pass from Darian Mensah to Malachi Toney, making the score 38-28.
The win sets the stage for a highly anticipated road game against No. 5 Notre Dame next week. However, the Hurricanes’ defense faced a significant challenge, allowing North Carolina to consistently move the ball down the field.
North Carolina (4-4, 2-3) continues a losing streak against top-ranked opponents, now standing at 0-12. The Tar Heels’ offense, led by Edwards, put up a strong fight, accumulating a season-high 341 passing yards and four touchdowns, two of which went to Jelani Thurman.
Miami’s Darian Mensah threw for 274 yards and three touchdowns.
Miami’s victory follows a double-overtime win against Florida State and a dominant performance against Pittsburgh, but the defensive struggles are a concern heading into the Notre Dame matchup. The Tar Heels had previously won against Pitt and Duke, but lost their previous game in overtime against Syracuse.
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“No. 1 Miami holds off North Carolina 38-35 to stay unbeaten”
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