North Carolina stunned by South Carolina in Mayo Bowl

North Carolina’s disappointing season ended in fitting fashion on Thursday afternoon — a 38-21 drubbing at the hands of South Carolina.

The Tar Heels fell behind 18-0 in the first quarter and never seriously threatened to get back in the game. North Carolina was favored by double digits as k

ickoff approached.

South Carolina’s game plan proved to be too much for UNC, who wasn’t expecting a healthy dose of quarterback Dakereon Joyner in this game. Joyner completed all 9 of his passing attempts for 160 yards and 1 touchdown. He also rushed for an efficient 64 yards on 10 carries.

Meanwhile, North Carolina’s playmakers weren’t able to step up. Sam Howell was limited to just 3 rushing yards on 13 carries and Ty Chandler had just 29 yards on 9 attempts.

Third down was a big issue for the Tar Heels on both sides of the ball. UNC’s offense w

ent just 1-of-10 on third down, which was a big reason why it ran only 50 plays in this game. South Carolina won the time-of-possession battle 39:02-20:58.

On the other side, South Carolina converted 6-of-11 third down attempts and averaged 8.2 yards per play. The Gamecocks’ previous season-high for yards per play this year was 7.0, which came in a win over Florida.

This wraps up a disappointing season for the Tar Heels, who entered the year with expectations of competing for an ACC title. Instead, they finish the season with a 6-7 record and plenty of question marks heading into 2022.