UNC Freshman Demon June Emerges as Top Running Back After Breakout Richmond Performance

Demon June, a true freshman running back for UNC, has rapidly emerged as the team's top running back after a breakout performance against Richmond, where he rushed for 148 yards and scored his first collegiate touchdown. Originally at the bottom of the depth chart, June earned his opportunity through hard work in practice, impressing head coach Bill Belichick and becoming the leading rusher in just his second game. His 50-yard run against Richmond was the longest by a UNC freshman since Omarion Hampton in 2022, and his total rushing yards were the most by a Tar Heel freshman since Michael Carter's 157 yards in 2017. UNC had begun the season with a running back-by-committee approach, but June's performance has positioned him as the likely primary starter moving forward. June credits the offensive line and team effort for his success, emphasizing a straightforward running style focused on efficiency. His rapid rise signals that UNC has potentially found its RB1 for the near future, continuing the program's recent history of producing high-caliber running backs.