Carolina football’s most electrifying player, Ryan Switzer, has made it clear that he’s out to build upon 2013’s success and shatter even more ACC and NCAA records in the 2014 season.

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But Switzer says he thinks Carolina’s overall team success may hinge on the defense.

“If we can get better, go man more often, and those guys can do what they do and that’s play some doggone good defense, we’re going to be tough to handle,” Switzer says.

The freshman sensation burst onto the national landscape last season by leading the ACC in punt return yardage and return touchdowns with four. Switzer was named first-team All-ACC for his incredible performances on Saturdays.

Switzer says he’s still building his relationship with new offensive coordinator Seth Littrell, but he expects there to be plenty of intensity involved.

“He’s kind of learning the schemes and learning his place a little bit. But we’ve talked and I understand that as soon as he gets comfortable where he’s at, he’s going to be able to start coaching how he wants to coach. From what I’ve heard, it’s pretty intense,” Switzer says.

Carolina will hold two practices away from Chapel Hill this spring. Switzer says he thinks bringing the Tar Heels to Charlotte and Greensboro will help the program’s broad-range support and aid in recruiting battles.

“Any time you can expand your range, it’s good for recruiting and for people that can’t come down and see us practice. Any time you can get the people in the state behind your program, it’s really big. That’s what Coach Fedora and the coaching staff is trying to do,” Switzer says.

Switzer says he’s looking forward to honing his skills as not only a specialist, but also a wide receiver this coming season for the Tar Heels.

“My goal is just to continue to get better as a wide out. With a full year of experience, the difference between last year and this upcoming season is going to be phenomenal. I’m looking forward to showing what I’ve worked on in the offseason,” Switzer says.

And as for his concerns over teams kicking away from him in 2014? Switzer says he’s not worried.

“I love it. […] When teams have to prepare for me individually, it means something. It means you’re worth something. Cincinnati had a whole month to prepare for us, and they still ended up having to kick me the ball. I’m going to get some punts, man,” Switzer says.

Fans will be able to see Switzer and the rest of the Tar Heels in action at the annual Blue & White Spring Game April 12 at 3 p.m.