UNC/McNeese State Preview

Mark Paschal likes that the experts think North Carolina could be competitive for a change. The senior linebacker also knows nothing will wipe away those expectations like a season-opening loss to McNeese State on Saturday night.

The Tar Heels have thrived all preseason on being considered a dark horse to contend for the Atlantic Coast Conference's Coastal Division title. Their projected No. 2 finish could give them just enough validation of their progress under Butch Davis. But it will also keep them as hungry underdogs to favorite Virginia Tech.

North Carolina finished 4-8 in Davis' first season, so the Tar Heels could use a fast start to justify the considerable buzz. But a loss to McNeese State could derail the season before it really gets started.

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