Nick Chubb returned from last season's horrific knee injury Saturday to lead the No. 18 Georgia Bulldogs to a 33-24 win over No. 22 North Carolina.
The last time we saw Chubb in action, he tore his ACL in what was a career-threatening injury. Many wrote the junior running back off, and gave him little chance to win any awards this season. But he proved Saturday that he's more than up to the task.
Chubb carried the ball 32 times for 222 yards and two touchdowns, including a stunning 55-yard scamper late in the fourth quarter to ice the game. The performance puts him squarely on the radar for the most touted end-of-the season awards. But as always, no one has ever won the Heisman in Week 1.
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Offensively, Georgia was consistent throughout, scoring in every quarter. The turning point came when wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie hauled in a 17-yard touchdown pass from Jacob Eason late in the third quarter. The touchdown was quickly followed by a safety, cutting UNC's lead to one.
Then in the fourth quarter, Georgia kicker William Ham nailed a 29-yard attempt after missing earlier in the game. The Bulldogs never looked back, ultimately scoring 19 unanswered points to win the game.
The Tar Heels looked in control after taking the lead on T.J. Logan's 95-yard kickoff return to open the second half. It was the third kick return he's taken for touchdown in his career, but first since his rookie season in 2013.
T.J. Logan takes it to the house #UNCvsUGA pic.twitter.com/h8KLT2E8z0
— DFSDAILYBEST (@DFSDAILYBEST) September 3, 2016
The Tar Heels added another touchdown with 6:34 remaining in the third on a 21-yard run by Logan, who scampered around the sideline to continue his impressive performance. Logan finished the game 83 yards from scrimmage — 80 rushing — and 170 off of kick returns.
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Despite the win, Georgia may have a quarterback controversy. Greyson Lambert started the game, but was quickly pulled in favor of Eason, who shined, completing 8 of his 12 passes for 131 yards and a touchdown.
Lambert may have been Kirby Smart's first choice, but the Georgia fans have spoken and they want Eason next week.