Without 25 players for college football season opener, Florida A&M shows 'character and resolve' in loss to North Carolina

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Without 25 ineligible players, and playing with just seven available offensive linemen, Florida A&M authored an impressive performance before succumbing to North Carolina, 56-24, on Saturday night.

Quarterback Jeremy Moussa was 28-of-38 for 279 yards, two touchdowns and one interception and kept the Rattlers close in the first half before the depth and skill of the Tar Heels took over in the second.

«I can't speak enough to the character and resolve of this football team,» Rattlers coach Willie Simmons said. «This is a special group of guys. We proved we belonged tonight. We opened some eyeballs. I am so honored and overwhelmed to be able to lead this group of men.»

Drake Maye, named North Carolina's starter earlier in the week by coach Mack Brown, was 29-of-37 for 294 yards and five touchdowns, spreading the ball around to a deep crop of Tar Heels receivers. Ten different Tar Heels caught passes in the win, led by Josh Downs, who finished with nine receptions for 72 yards and two scores.

Omarion Hampton kept the chains moving for North Carolina as Florida A&M's lack of depth began to show in the second half. He finished with 14 carries for 101 yards and two touchdowns.

Florida A&M arrived with the reduced roster reduced because of unresolved eligibility issues. The list of those absent included linebacker Isaiah Land, who led the Football Championship Subdivision in sacks last year.

In a statement released Friday, Simmons said the team initially decided not to play after learning Thursday night that the offensive linemen were deemed ineligible. But after further discussion Friday, the team ultimately decided to North Carolina and play the season opener.

«The players didn't feel comfortable playing