North Carolina wide receiver Tez Walker had a debut to remember as he electrified the field in his first game for the Tar Heels, contributing significantly to last Saturday’s victory over the Miami Hurricanes.
Walker’s presence was immediately impactful, showcasing his versatility and skill set by connecting with quarterback Drake Maye for an impressive 132 yards and three touchdowns on six receptions.
Not only did he excel in the passing game, but he also demonstrated his agility on the field with a 20-yard rush, helping secure a 41-31 triumph for the Tar Heels.
๐ช๐ผ๐ฟ๐๐ต ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ฎ๐ถ๐. @DrakeMaye2 ๐ค @DevontezWalker pic.twitter.com/lHm7pLDkn1
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) October 15, 2023
For Walker, the journey to this momentous game has been fraught with challenges and obstacles.
Initially deemed ineligible by the NCAA due to his status as a two-time transfer, the decision was met with widespread criticism and condemnation, including strong words from North Carolina coach Mack Brown, who admonished the NCAA, saying, “Shame on you, NCAA.”
However, after a sudden turn of events, the NCAA reversed its decision and granted Walker a transfer waiver to play, citing the emergence of new information.
The talented receiver began his collegiate career at North Carolina Central but was unable to showcase his skills on the field due to the cancellation of the 2020 season amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
He subsequently transferred to Kent State, where he made a significant impact, culminating in a remarkable season in 2022, marked by 58 receptions for 921 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning him the title of first-team All-MAC.
Tez Walker scores (again), then flips 'The U' upside down to draw the flag. pic.twitter.com/8CHqUHngEY
— Bryan Fischer (@BryanDFischer) October 15, 2023
Walker’s decision to transfer to the University of North Carolina was not only fueled by his ambition to play at a higher level but also driven by personal circumstances.
Battling mental health challenges and dealing with his grandmother’s declining health, who had been unable to attend any of his games out of state, Walker sought to be closer to home.
However, the NCAA’s strict guidelines for two-time transfers initially thwarted his hopes of immediate eligibility.
Yet, last week’s turn of events brought a glimmer of hope as the NCAA announced that it had received new information pertaining to Walker’s eligibility, ultimately granting him the waiver.
Notably, the NCAA highlighted that this crucial information had not been previously disclosed by the University of North Carolina, despite multiple opportunities to do so.
โ๏ธfor ๐๐๐ณ. pic.twitter.com/BCOEcDAp87
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) October 15, 2023
Expressing joy and gratitude, North Carolina head coach Mack Brown stated, “We were thrilled,” in response to the news of Walker’s eligibility.
Walker himself eagerly anticipated this moment, saying, “I can’t wait to put on that jersey … I’ve been dreaming of this for a long time, and now it will be a reality. See everyone on Saturday.”
Ranked #10 in the country with an undefeated 6-0 record, the Tar Heels are certainly a team to watch out for.
Maye is arguably the best quarterback in the country, and now with Walker in the fold, North Carolina is a real dark-horse to make the Playoff.
What are your thoughts on the Tar Heels?
It’s easy to overlook them … But would that be a mistake???