University of North Carolina Athletics
Intriguing Battles In The NFL
September 16, 2007 | Football
Sept. 16, 2007
There are a couple of intriguing matchups today involving former Tar Heels in the NFL. The most notable comes in Denver, where Pro Bowl cornerback Dre' Bly will try to shut down Oakland wide receiver Ronald Curry. Last week, Curry led all NFL wideouts with 10 catches.
A former quarterback at North Carolina, Curry has blossomed into a solid pass catching threat. Interestingly, Curry really became a factor in the Raiders' offense once John Shoop took over as offensive coordinator. Shoop, now running the Tar Heels' offense, said last winter that Ron Curry was an explosive player who just needed to get the ball. The new staff in Oakland seems to agree.
In Charlotte today, two high profile defensive ends with connections to the state of North Carolina are on opposing teams. Julius Peppers, arguably the best defensive end in UNC's history, anchors the Carolina Panthers defensive line, while Mario Williams, last year's No. 1 overall pick and a Richlands, N.C. and NC State product, plays for Houston.
Other Tar Heels in early action today include Pittsburgh's Tar Heel trio of Willie Parker, Jeff Reed and Greg Warren.
In other NFL news, Jesse Holley (Cincinnati) and Victor Worsley (Indianapolis) have bee signed to practice squad rosters.
