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
Drake Maye Named PFWA Most Improved Player of the YearNew England quarterback Drake Maye, who helped lead the Patriots to 14 victories and paced the NFL in several passing categories, is the 2025 NFL...
Fri Jan 23, 2026Jahvaree Ritzie Signed To Pittsburgh Steelers Reserve/Future Contract
The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed defensive end Jahvaree Ritzie to a Reserve/Future contract. Ritzie was signed by the New England Patriots as an undrafted free...
Fri Jan 23, 2026
Where does Drake Maye's sophomore season rank among greatest second-year QB seasons in NFL history?
Of all the stats on Drake Maye, this may be my favorite: He's the first quarterback to post the NFL's best record (14-3), completion percentage...
Wed Jan 21, 2026
Video: IC Podcast - Can UNC copy the Indiana Football blueprint?
Two days after Indiana won the National Championship in football, Inside Carolina's Greg Barnes and Tommy Ashley discuss the impact of the Hoosier run on...
Wed Jan 21, 2026