North Carolina quarterback Sam Howell is expected to play in the Tar Heels’ bowl game vs. South Carolina, per a report.

That’s according to ESPN’s David Hale.

Howell is projected to be one of the top quarterbacks off the board in the 2022 NFL Draft. He had a bit of a disappointing season as a passer for the Tar Heels this year, throwing just 23 touchdowns and a career-high 9 interceptions.

Still, Howell was effective enough to be considered a legitimate NFL Draft prospect. He completed 62.7 percent of his passes and significantly increased his rushing production to the tune of 825 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground.

With that being said, the bowl game figures to be a good opportunity for Howell to improve his draft stock should he decide to leave Chapel Hill. He is eligible to return in 2022 for another season with the Tar Heels.

North Carolina will meet South Carolina in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl on Dec. 30 at 11:30 a.m. ET.