Tar Heels Lose Star Defender Melkart Abou Jaoude for Clemson Clash

Tar Heels Lose Key Defender

North Carolina will have to face Clemson without their best defensive player. Star defender Melkart Abou Jaoude is expected to miss Saturday's game. He had been listed as questionable on the injury report, but sources indicate he will not be able to play.

The injury occurred during the Tar Heels' season opener against TCU. Abou Jaoude suffered a hand and wrist injury during the game. Before he was forced out, he showed why he is so valuable, recording four tackles and one sack in the game. Without him, the defense will face a much tougher challenge on the road.

A Massive Void on Defense

Abou Jaoude is one of the most feared pass rushers in the country. Last season, he led the Atlantic Coast Conference in sacks per game. He finished that impressive campaign with 10.5 sacks and 47 total tackles, which earned him second team All ACC honors.

The defender already missed last week's game against East Tennessee State. He spent that game on the sideline, wearing a cast on his left hand and arm.

Head coach Bill Belichick discussed the situation after last week's game. Belichick stated that Abou Jaoude was day to day. The coach added that nobody is working harder than he is to get back. Despite that hard work, the star defender will not be ready in time for the Clemson game.

What it means for the next game

North Carolina Tar Heels at Clemson Tigers (College Football, Sat, 19 Sep): Clemson Tigers win 61%, North Carolina Tar Heels win 39%; projected score Clemson Tigers 24, North Carolina Tar Heels 20. Our safest pick: Clemson to win.