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

North Carolina Had Clemson on the Ropes, Then the Tar Heels Went Flat
With 8:11 remaining, the Tar Heels faced second-and-goal at the Clemson 8-yard line. It was a prime chance to make it a two-possession game and...
Sun Sep 20, 2026

Good, Bad, and Ugly Report: Clemson
This game will join the likes of the 1987 Clemson game in Chapel Hill where UNC dropped a potential game-winning pass and the phantom offside...
Sun Sep 20, 2026

How UNC Unraveled After the Weather Delay at Clemson
Following the prolonged weather delay in Death Valley, a sluggish North Carolina was outgained 111-36 over that final 7:53, allowing Clemson to match its offensive...
Sat Sep 19, 2026

Video: Bill Belichick Post-Clemson Press Conference
North Carolina head football coach Bill Belichick speaks with the media following the Tar Heels' 28-20 road loss to the Clemson Tigers on Saturday afternoon...
Sat Sep 19, 2026