Drake Maye reveals how teams have started to play him differently

Drake Maye has been tremendous for North Carolina thus far in 2022, but the Tar Heels have had to adjust as more teams begin to study the quarterback’s habits.

Nevertheless, Maye has led North Carolina to a 5-1 start on the season, entering the Heisman conversation with every passing week. Ahead of a rivalry showdown with Duke, the Tar Heels leader revealed how teams are beginning to play him differently as the season progresses.

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“I think, quarterback draw was a big hit for us last year, I think they’re kind of not trying to get as much rush upfield. Trying to push the pocket a little bit, trying to set some defensive lineman back a bit,” explained Maye. “Watching me, seeing my escape routes and stuff like that. That’s the main thing I kind of think. 

“… Just trying to keep me from making plays with my feet, and also they’re kind of sitting back a little bit. Making us take it underneath, which I think we just have to do what they give us and not force the ball. Some deep ones that maybe I’d want back.”

Regardless, Drake Maye has passed for 1903 yards and 21 touchdowns to just three interceptions, adding 308 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, as well. Teams may have begun playing him differently, but it hasn’t affected his success just yet.

Drake Maye on his strong start: ‘Winning is something I’m kind of used to’

Continuing, Drake Maye’s strong start may have surprised many in the college football world, but the North Carolina quarterback always expected to overcome adversity and find victories.

“Obviously you’re going to have some times where you’re expecting adversity, but at the end of the day, I think winning is something I’m kind of used to, in my life,” Maye said. “Just kind of trying to keep staying honest with myself and taking a look at the film and staying on what I need to work on better.”

Moreover, Maye is arguably the main reason the Tar Heels are 5-1. He’s No. 3 in the country in both passing efficiency and passing touchdowns, while he’s tied for No. 1 in America for total touchdowns responsible for (passing, receiving, rushing, returning). He’s No. 7 in passing yards and climbs to No. 2 on the total yardage tally as he’s a legitimate threat with his legs. See: “Air Drake.”

But ask Maye, and he’ll tell you there’s plenty of room to get better.

“But also yeah, I think my play so far, I’d give it like B, B-plus, not great,” Maye said to some laughs from the reporters on hand.

Cracking a grin, the quarterback pressed on.

“If y’all are in the film room, you’d understand,” Maye said. “Just kind of some decision making, and so forth like that. Some throwbacks and stuff. Just got keep getting better. I think that just shows with the offense, how much room we have to grow and where we’re going with this program.”