One of the most highly-rated recruits in the history of the UNC football program is already drawing national attention. Freshman offensive lineman Zach Rice, a consensus five-star recruit, was named to On3’s Preseason Freshman All-America list Tuesday afternoon.

Rice arrived on the UNC campus this past January as an early enrollee, and played in Carolina’s spring game in April. Standing at 6-5 and weighing 320 pounds, the freshman is already an imposing presence along the Tar Heels’ offensive line. And while it remains to be seen how much playing time Rice will get, On3 is clearly high on the Lynchburg, VA native. The online publication called him “a dominant run-blocker at the high school level.”

“He may need some time to continue refining his technique,” it said. “But [he] has the ability to project as a multi-year starter, perhaps as soon as this season.”

Indeed, several departures along UNC’s line could pave the way for early playing time for Rice. UNC is dealing with the losses of 2021 starters Joshua Ezeudu, Marcus McKethan, Jordan Tucker and Quiron Johnson. Rice is one of several newcomers on the line, including transfers Corey Gaynor (Miami) and Spencer Rolland (Harvard). Additionally, offensive line coach Jack Bicknell, Jr. is also in his first season in Chapel Hill.

UNC’s first game of the season is August 27 at 8:15 p.m. against Florida A&M in Kenan Stadium.

 

Featured image via UNC Athletic Communications

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