The North Carolina defensive line has struggled to finish.
Tasked with anchoring the defense, stopping the run and attacking opposing quarterbacks, the unit has yet to meet expectations this season.
“The first two games weren’t up to our standard,” said defensive tackle Jeremiah Clarke. “We’re just missing opportunities in the backfield.”
With just two sacks in two games, the Tar Heels will look to create more pressure against Illinois on Saturday. Against an Illini team that has scored 96 points in its first two games, getting to the quarterback will prove crucial.
And coaches and players know that all effective pass rushes start with one thing: stopping the run.