North Carolina orchestrated a hard-fought 15-10 upset victory against TCU in Ireland, anchored by pivotal contributions across both offensive and defensive units.
While Pro Football Focus identified the defense as the primary driver of the team’s high grades, the rejuvenated receiving corps significantly outperformed initial projections.
Here are the best performers from UNC in their win over TCU according to PFF.
OFFENSIVE PERFORMANCE METRICS
1. Billy Edwards Jr., QB (Grade: 76.8)
Edwards recorded 232 yards on 16-of-28 passing (57.1%) with no turnover-worthy plays. His efficiency peaked on play action (5-of-8, 115 yards), while managing 24 yards on 50% completion under pressure.
2. Jelani Thurman, TE (Grade: 68.7)
Thurman converted eight targets into four receptions for 94 yards,
highlighted by 72 yards after the catch. He secured one contested catch but recorded one drop.
3. Christo Kelly, C (Grade: 68.2)
Despite conceding a sack and two pressures, Kelly led the offensive line in run-blocking with a unit-high 67.6 grade.
4. Jordan Shipp, WR (Grade: 67.6)
Shipp achieved a 100% first-down rate on five catches (eight targets) for 71 yards. His usage was split between the perimeter (19 snaps) and the slot (14 snaps).
5. Shamar Easter, TE (Grade: 66.9)
In 12 snaps, Easter recorded one 9-yard reception. He contributed effectively in run support, posting a 58.1 grade across five blocking snaps.
DEFENSIVE PERFORMANCE METRICS
1. Xavier Lewis, DL (Grade: 88.2)
Lewis dominated with seven tackles, 4.5 TFLs, and two sacks. His 88.2 PFF grade represents the second-best mark of his career. His run defense was elite (89.5 grade), supported by a game-leading five stops.
2. Melkart Abou Jaoude, ED (Grade: 83.6)
Abou Jaoude generated a team-high three pressures and two stops, resulting in his second-highest career grade (83.6).
3. Jonathan Agumadu, LB (Grade: 74.0)
Agumadu finished with five tackles and ranked second on the defense in coverage grade (72.1).
4. Coleman Bryson, S (Grade: 71.6)
Primarily stationed at free safety, Bryson led the team in coverage grade (73.1), allowing only one four-yard reception on two targets.
5. Derek McDonald, LB (Grade: 69.7)
McDonald set a career high with 11 tackles. He added four stops and one pressure to round out the defensive leaderboard.
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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: PFF reveals UNC’s best players from upset of TCU
