100 in 100: Gates County’s Thomas Smith, one of UNC’s original Rude Boys

Posted May 7, 2020
In 1989, Thomas Smith showed up at UNC as a walk-on after starring at tiny Gates County High School. The cornerback quickly earned a starting spot, and — as a leader in a secondary that became known as “The Rude Boys” — he played a major role in helping Mack Brown transform the Tar Heels from a 1-10 record to a nine-win bowl team three years later. (North State Journal)

Related: Football, Football Recruiting

Undrafted Tar Heels Sign Deals with NFL Teams
North Carolina had three football players taken in the 2024 NFL Draft. Running back British Brooks, defensive lineman Tomari Fox, edge rusher / outside linebacker...
Mon Apr 29, 2024

How UNC's Quarterbacks Are Being Graded
Conner Harrell and Max Johnson were mostly throwing passes to young wide receivers during spring practice, complicating the grading process of the Tar Heels' quarterback...
Mon Apr 29, 2024

Austin Proehl Named Wide Receivers Coach At Wingate University
Austin Proehl, a former standout wide receiver at the University of North Carolina who was drafted into the NFL by the Buffalo Bills, now is...
Mon Apr 29, 2024

New England Patriots QB Drake Maye's leadership, intel on draft picks
Drake Maye faced a big decision after the 2022 season, his first as a starter when he set UNC records for completions (342) and passing...
Mon Apr 29, 2024