After crash, UNC linebacker plays in memory of friend

Posted Oct 13, 2012
There were weeks when Tommy Heffernan couldn’t get out of bed, when his mom had to serve him meals in his room. He slept through some days. At night, dreams of the car crash and flames haunted him. Sometimes, those dreams fooled him into believing that his best friend, more like a brother, survived. Then Heffernan would wake up, and the real nightmare – the one he couldn’t escape – would begin again. (Raleigh News & Observer)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

Video: UNC Football Players Friday Preseason Press Conferences
North Carolina running back Jaylen McGill, defensive back Tre Miller, wide receiver Mason Humphrey, and defensive back Peyton Waters speak with the media on Friday...
Fri Aug 21, 2026

UNC Kicker Rece Verhoff Ineligible After New Court Ruling
Sixteen days after North Carolina added kicker Rece Verhoff back to the program, following the class action temporary injunction in Colorado granting the class of...
Fri Aug 21, 2026

Bill Belichick open to adding players cut from NFL rosters
Could UNC add players cut from NFL rosters? Coach Bill Belichick said he is looking into a federal judge’s decision Wednesday granting a temporary restraining...
Fri Aug 21, 2026

Video: Bill Belichick Friday Preseason Press Conference
North Carolina head football coach Bill Belichick speaks with the media on Friday to discuss the Tar Heels' preparations for their season opener against TCU...
Fri Aug 21, 2026