Still shocked about Saturday's result from Kenan Stadium? Leading Syracuse until the very final play of overtime, UNC lost 31-30 to a team in the ACC cellar.
North Carolina (4-3, 2-2 ACC) struggled defensively, allowing 455 yards to an Orange (3-4, 1-4 ACC) that returned quarterback Steve Angeli. Despite the Tar Heels' failure to slow Syracuse down, starting linebacker Derek McDonald enjoyed another great performance, increasing his team lead with a career-high 16 tackles.
The Syracuse transfer earned recognition for his efforts on Monday afternoon, as the ACC named McDonald Linebacker of the Week.
Starting alongside Richmond transfer Peyton Seelmann in the linebacking corps, McDonald's experience and pursuit gives UNC a talented leader on its
inconsistently defense. With 72 tackles, two TFLs/pass breakups apiece and a forced fumble, McDonald is proving himself amongst college football's best and worthy of a spot in 2027's NFL Draft.
After losing to his former team on Saturday, McDonald highlighted North Carolina's ability in getting the Orange to third down, but how Angeli's mobility and allowing late conversions proved costly. The Tar Heels appeared to win on a 2-point conversion stop, depending on who you ask, but they should've put the game away in regulation.
Derek McDonald is your ACC linebacker of the week! pic.twitter.com/1rZ8ke2Msa
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) October 26, 2026
If you thought slowing Syracuse down was tough, wait until Halloween. UNC's next task is slowing a Miami offense that averages 551.9 yards per game, most in the country.
There's no denying McDonald would rather have a victory than another career day, but if he plays well again this coming weekend, North Carolina has a better chance of delivering the upset of 2026.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC starter earns weekly ACC honors after career game vs. Syracuse
