For Brown, who announced his retirement earlier this season, the loss was a bittersweet ending to his second stint at North Carolina. The legendary coach guided the Tar Heels to a national championship in 1997, but his second run at the program produced just one ACC Coastal Division title.
“It’s been an honor and a privilege to coach at this great university,” said Brown after the game. “I’m proud of what we accomplished here.”
The game was a tight contest from start to finish. The Tar Heels took an early lead, but the Wolfpack responded with a touchdown late in the first quarter. The teams traded touchdowns throughout the second half, with NC State ultimately emerging victorious thanks to a field goal with just over two minutes remaining.
Offensively, North Carolina struggled to find consistency. Quarterback Drake Maye was held to 219 passing yards and a touchdown, while the running game produced just 119 yards on 36 carries. Defensively, the Tar Heels allowed NC State to rush for over 200 yards.
The loss to NC State puts an end to North Carolina’s season. The Tar Heels will now prepare for a bowl game, which will be announced on Sunday. Despite the disappointing finish, Brown expressed optimism about the future of the program.
“We have a lot of young talent on this team,” said Brown. “I believe they have a bright future.”
Under Brown’s leadership, North Carolina compiled a 90-75 record, won four ACC Coastal Division titles, and made six bowl appearances. His legacy at the university will undoubtedly be shaped by his successful tenure during his first stint in the 1990s and early 2000s.
