100 in 100: Gates County’s Thomas Smith, one of UNC’s original Rude Boys
Posted May 7, 2020
In 1989, Thomas Smith showed up at UNC as a walk-on after starring at tiny Gates County High School. The cornerback quickly earned a starting spot, and — as a leader in a secondary that became known as “The Rude Boys” — he played a major role in helping Mack Brown transform the Tar Heels from a 1-10 record to a nine-win bowl team three years later.
(North State Journal)
Related: Football, Football Recruiting
Video: IC Podcast - Bobby Petrino, Talent, and UNC's QuarterbacksGreg Barnes and Tommy Ashley of Inside Carolina discuss what's next for UNC Football after Monday's announcement that longtime college coach Bobby Petrino will be...
Tue Dec 23, 2025THT Newsletter: Seth Trimble Returns, UNC Football's New OC, CJ Rosser Visits, 4-Star Safety Commits
There’s a lot to cover in this week's newsletter before we log off for the holidays, so let’s dive in. Seth Trimble is back, UNC...
Tue Dec 23, 2025
Bobby Petrino Would Bring Brilliance, Baggage To UNC
Bobby Petrino, the man whose name evokes both offensive brilliance and controversy, is reportedly set to become UNC's next offensive coordinator under Coach Bill Belichick...
Mon Dec 22, 2025
UNC Quarterback Bryce Baker To Enter Transfer Portal
North Carolina quarterback Bryce Baker plans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. Baker was a freshman at UNC this past season and didn’t see any...
Mon Dec 22, 2025