In a gripping college football rivalry game, the University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels faced off against the North Carolina State Wolfpack, concluding their season with a 29-21 loss. This game marked the last home appearance for head coach Mack Brown, who has led the Tar Heels since 2019. Despite a valiant effort, UNC struggled against NC State’s strong defense and missed key opportunities throughout the match. The game was characterized by turnovers and penalties that shifted momentum. Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye threw for two touchdowns but was intercepted once, while the UNC defense allowed NC State quarterback Brennan Armstrong to throw for 230 yards and a touchdown. In a post-game statement, Coach Brown expressed his disappointment, saying, ‘We did not play to the best of our ability, and that hurts, especially in a rivalry game.’ The defeat not only put an end to Brown’s tenure at home with a record of 25-21 over five seasons but also left the Tar Heels with a 6-6 overall record, raising questions about their bowl eligibility. NC State improved to 8-4 with the win, further intensifying the rivalry between the two teams. The atmosphere was electric, with fans from both sides filling the stands at Kenan Memorial Stadium. The Brook Collective, a student organization supporting the Tar Heels, expressed their solidarity but ultimately lamented the loss. With the season drawing to a close, the future for both teams remains uncertain as they prepare for bowl selections and the offseason.
UNC Falls to NC State in Mack Brown’s Home Finale
