The pioneer: Ricky Lanier reflects on being UNC's first Black football player

Posted Feb 28, 2023
The story goes that starting quarterback John Swofford went down early with an injury, meaning North Carolina coach Bill Dooley had to turn to his bench for a replacement in the 1969 game against VMI. It then became time for Ricky Lanier to show he was more than capable of directing an offense and better than the stereotype that said he couldn’t. (Winston-Salem Journal)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

UNC Football To Celebrate 100th Season Of Kenan Stadium In 2026
UNC Football will celebrate the 100th season of Kenan Stadium during the 2026 season with a series of special events, facility enhancements, and fan experiences...
Wed May 13, 2026

Video: Carolina Football - The Process, Episode 1
North Carolina Football's long-form video feature The Process, Episode 1 goes behind-the-scenes with the Tar Heels' to highlight preparations for the upcoming season, team-building activities,...
Wed May 13, 2026

UNC Football Opponent Snapshot: TCU
The TCU Horned Frogs blitzed UNC at Kenan Stadium, 48-14, spoiling what could've been a magical night to open the season last year. This year,...
Wed May 13, 2026

UNC vs. TCU In 2026 Aer Lingus College Football Classic Set For Noon On ESPN
For the fifth straight year, the Aer Lingus College Football Classic will kick off the college football season, as the 2026 edition is set for...
Tue May 12, 2026