By Jim Johnson
SouthernPigskin.com

Follow us at Twitter.com/SouthernPigskin.  Become a fan at the SouthernPigskin.com Facebook Page

North Carolina, fresh off its best season since Mack Brown was the coach, will look to carry the momentum from last year into its 2016 campaign.

North Carolina, fresh off its best season since Mack Brown was the coach, will look to carry the momentum from last year into its 2016 campaign. A much improved defense must sustain its progress, while a largely talented offense looks to embed a new quarterback without much drop-off.

Offense — There was not one more explosive unit in college football than the Tar Heels offense last year, averaging a nation leading 7.28 yards per play. Everything starts on the o-line with four returning starters from a year ago, three of whom were all-conference selections, and the lone newcomer is the most experienced reserve on the roster. Elijah Hood, the third leading rusher in the ACC in 2015, is one of the most underrated backs in the game, and TJ Logan gives Larry Fedora a competent second option. A trio of senior wideouts, Mack Hollins, Bug Howard, and Ryan Switzer, will significantly ease the transition behind center. Still, as with any first-year starter at quarterback, there will be some bumps in the road.

Defense — In Gene Chiziks first year as defensive coordinator, he turned UNCs defense from one of the worst to, at least, serviceable. Still, there is a ton of room for improvement. This group should have a chip on its shoulder after being embarrassed by Baylor in the postseason. Nazair Jones will anchor a front seven that, after losing a few seniors, leaves a lot to be desired. The secondary will be one of the better units around, but if the Heels dont make some strides up front, it wont matter.

Special Teams — Ryan Switzer, one punt return touchdown shy of the all-time record, is one of the most dangerous returners ever. Senior kicker Nick Weiler was very reliable, making 20 of 23 attempts, last year. The punting game could stand to improve.

Schedule — From the get-go, North Carolina will need to prove itself, opening up with Georgia, in Atlanta. Road games at Florida State and Miami will test Larry Fedora and companys fortitude, as well. However, all things considered, with the Coastal as up for grabs as it is, North Carolinas schedule is no worse than its divisional foes.

Team MVP — Elijah Hood, RB

Rising Star — Dajaun Drennon, DE

Newcomer to Watch — Patrice Rene, CB

Ultimately, North Carolinas success is dependent upon the play of the defense, and, even more so, the play of Mitch Trubisky. If the defense continues to take steps in the right direction, and Trubisky picks up where Marquise Williams left off, theres no reason that the Tar Heels cant repeat as Coastal champs.