I have a bunch of stuff I want to cover today. It seems to me like a perfect time for one of my rant and rave columns. Buckle up folks…this is going to go quick.

I’ll start off with Carolina’s much-needed win this past Saturday. The Tar Heels offense looked pitiful during the previous two outings, managing one touchdown and 10 total points.

This past Saturday, against an admittedly over-matched opponent, Carolina’s offense appeared to get itself together. Between their ability to run the ball between the tackles and the defenses hunger for turnovers, the Heels were able to build a considerable first half lead.

This lead allowed for even more playing time for Hertford County native Tydreke Powell. Powell has continued to improve in both his ability to rush the passer, but even more impressively, shed his blocker and stop the run. Tydreke gets better every week and if he continues to improve, will be fun to watch on both Saturdays and Sundays.

The increased lead also opened up the opportunity for Bertie High graduate Travis Bond to get extended playing time. Travis looks like a man among boys even in a Division One huddle and was able to show off his superior size and ability on several occasions.

Travis did play like the true freshman that he is sometimes, but that was to be expected. I was more than impressed however with his improved footwork and assignment knowledge from the beginning of the season. Both allow him to use his exceptional size and power more effectively.

Expect him to get better and better as the season progresses. With the injuries hitting the offensive line like they have, his playing time may increase substantially any moment.

One of the coolest points of the weekend came during warm-ups when I spotted a friend of mine roaming the Carolina sidelines. Brian Overton, a former Hertford County quarterback and offensive guru has been working for the Tar Heels this season. I know that Brian is a lifelong Carolina fan like I am and it thrilled me to no end to witness him living his dream as a coach for UNC.

My seats are unfortunately behind the visitor’s bench so I haven’t had the chance to congratulate him on his success, so I decided to do that now. Brian, like Tydreke and Travis is just another example of the outstanding football talent that emerges from the Roanoke-Chowan region. They represent us well.

Another treat I received in Chapel Hill this weekend was the opportunity to meet UNC women’s soccer coach Anson Dorrance. Dorrance has won a whopping 20 National Championships at Carolina. Dorrance also headed the National Team and led them to the first ever Women’s World Cup. He is in my opinion one of the greatest soccer coaches alive. I am quite a fan.

What I was not a fan of this weekend was the University of Florida’s decision to play Tim Tebow against LSU. I recognize that it was a big game and one that might have an effect on the National Championship. Still, I think Urban Meyer should be ashamed of himself for putting him on the field less than a week after doctors has cleared Tebow to watch television…. seriously.

I can’t imagine any parent feeling comfortable that their son is in good hands should they choose to send their child to Florida to play football. Make no mistake, they will win. But, at what cost?

I can’t believe I’m going to say this…I really can’t. I simply never imagined the day would come when I would have to. Dook football is for real. Don’t believe me? Ask Virginia Tech and NC Farmers State.

College basketball season is about start and for the next few weeks it is officially my favorite time of year.

My Dolphins are getting better, my Yankees are still playing, The Hurricanes and showing improvement, Carolina football has some big games coming up and the defending National Championship North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball team is about to begin practice.

Life Is Good!

David Friedman is a long-time contributor to the Roanoke-Chowan News Herald. A Bertie High School graduate, he and his wife currently reside in Wilmington. David can be reached via e-mail at dave@gate811.net.