Mack Brown addresses challenges of keeping Drake Maye healthy from hits during runs

North Carolina‘s Drake Maye quickly established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation last year, and has already continued to build on that resume early in the 2023 season.

One of the most unique elements of his game his ability to run the football. Whether it’s in scrambling situations or designed runs, Maybe has the size, speed, and athleticism to create dazzling and effective plays for the Tar Heels’ offense.

This unfortunately comes with a price at times, with Maye being a fearless competitor that can take his fair share of hard hits at times. And ahead of North Carolina’s first conference game of the season, head coach Mack Brown spoke about the challenges that come with Maye’s play style.

“We love Drake, part of what we love is his competitiveness because that’s who he is,” Brown said. “But also we gotta be smart and I told him last year it’s selfish for you to take hits because we need you to play. So let’s be smart.”

Maye led the Tar Heels in carries and rushing yards last season, serving as a big part of the team’s rushing attack. And he did so in a fearless fashion, not afraid to leave his feet from time to time (which can be seen on his Twitter profile picture) or show off the physicality of his 6-foot-4, 230-pound frame.

He’s been featured less in the run game this season under new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey, but when his number is called Brown still prefers that his signal caller protects himself.

“There’s a fine line between competitive and smart. If it’s to win the game, go dive. Other days step out of bounds, don’t take a hit. Because everybody’s trying to hurt him, everybody. I mean they want him out of the game,” Brown said. “So get down, be smart.”

Maye is a tough quarterback to slow down, and if defenders have a chance to get a hard, clean hit on him, there’s no question they’ll take it in hopes it could hinder his performance.

“And next year when he’s in the NFL it’s going to be the same thing, with bigger guys and faster guys,” Brown added. “So let’s learn now how to stay healthy because we need you healthy and he just loves to compete. And you love that about him, let’s be smarter, let’s don’t be stubborn.”

Maye and the Tar Heels open up ACC play this weekend against Pitt, facing the Panthers on the road at 8:00 p.m. ET on Saturday in a matchup airing on ACC Network.