Sam Smiley fighting for starting job

Posted Aug 16, 2012
UNC redshirt freshman Sam Smiley is in the midst of a heated position battle with fellow redshirt freshman Darien Rankin this summer for UNC's open starting job at the free safety position. And while Rankin appeared to hold the upper hand through the first week of camp, Smiley came out of the first scrimmage this past Saturday as the No. 1, and has been running with the starters all of this week. (Tar Heel Illustrated)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

Dyami Brown excited to contribute to Jacksonville Jaguars elite WR group
Dyami Brown wanted a chance to do more. After a strong finish last season with the Washington Commanders, which included the second-most receiving yards in...
Sun Jul 6, 2025

Where UNC Stands In The Sporting News' Ranking Of ACC Starting Quarterbacks
12. Max Johnson, North Carolina: Surprisingly, The Sporting News has tabbed Max Johnson as UNC starting quarterback over South Alabama transfer Gio Lopez. Johnson broke...
Sun Jul 6, 2025

Getting to know the Dallas Cowboys' new vets: Javonte Williams
A lot of questions surround the Dallas Cowboys' running back position going into the 2025 season. Will they operate by committee again, or can a...
Sat Jul 5, 2025

North Carolina Football 2025 Crash Course: Offensive Line
North Carolina returns five offensive linemen from last season and brings in 11 newcomers. The abundance of change necessitates an overview of that unit as...
Fri Jul 4, 2025