Minnesota has a new defensive coordinator this season. However, they’re 22nd in the nation in returning defensive production. The Tar Heels have a new quarterback to begin this season so they may not be as explosive as previous years. Minnesota also has a new quarterback with a solid offensive line. The Gophers have only been a home dog once in the PJ Fleck era in week one, but that was to powerhouse Ohio State. Outside of the Buckeyes game, they’re 5-1 SU at home in week one since 2017.

Following consecutive nine-win seasons, the Gophers stumbled to a five-win campaign last year behind weak QB play and leaks from a usually sturdy defense. A couple key early turnovers led to a 31-13 loss at North Carolina last year. This rematch rates as a big swing game for both clubs' bowl hopes. The Gophers should be improved behind center with New Hampshire transfer Max Brosmer, and they have an underrated home-field environment.

When one thinks of a college football revenge game, it’s typically related to conference matchups. Yet, early in the season there are several repeat matchups from a season ago. One includes Minnesota who was embarrassed last season 31 to 13 against North Carolina. On their home field look for their defense to fare better this season, and newcomer at quarterback Max Brosmer to deliver. Take the home underdog in the Gophers.

Looking anywhere he could for help at QB, Minnesota's PJ Fleck went to the FCS ranks to pull out Max Brosmer, who did lead the division in pass yards (3484) last fall at UNH. The jump from the CAA to the Big Ten is big, however, though Brosmer first gets a look at an ACC stop-unit, where new d c Geoff Collins tries to tighten the screws at UNC. What more intrigues about the "under" in this opener is how this matchup could only reach 44 points last September in Chapel Hill with a livewire like Drake Maye (now NFL patriots) at QB for the Heels. Mack Brown is due a downgrade at QB this fall no matter who takes the snaps. Play UNC-Minnesota "Under"

Minnesota made a bowl game last year with only five wins and then beat Bowling Green 30-24. They returned 14 starters from last season. Max Brosmer led the FCS in passing yards as a junior in 2023 at New Hampshire. Minnesota has four starters returning on the offensive line. Carolina beat them pretty good, 31-13, last year in Chapel Hill. But Minnesota has too many questions unanswered, particularly at QB. Mack Brown hasn't even named the starter at QB but will likely be Max Johnson who has loads of experience. North Carolina covers.