Family environment helps UNC land 4-star RB George Pettaway

George Pettaway is a top 20 running back in the country and a member of the 2022 On300. The 5-foot-11, 190-pounder out of Suffolk (Va.) Nansemond-Suffolk Academy has over 30 offers.

The four-star cut his list to Florida, North Carolina, Oregon and Penn State before committing to Mack Brown and the Tar Heels.

Pettaway announced his commitment Wednesday September 22, almost two months after he pledged to the ACC program.

Pettaway’s decision made late in July

Recruits were allowed to take visits to college campuses the last week of July, and that is when Pettaway made his commitment.

“I was at a cook-out and before leaving, I walked to coach Mack Brown,” Pettaway said. “We sat down, I broke down my decision to him, and he was super-excited.

“We talked about the recruiting process, how I was going to be a silent commitment and how I was 100% committed to Oklahoma.”

Pettaway’s mind was made up. There was nothing for Brown or his staff to worry about even though Pettaway wanted his commitment to stay quiet.

He was waiting for the right time to make it public.

“I did not want to be a distraction to my team and my focus was on my team heading into August. We have two bye weeks in a row now, so it is the perfect time to announce my commitment.

“I am excited and I am going to enjoy it for what it is, but I am still focused on my team. This is the next step for me, and I love North Carolina, so I am feeling good about my decision.”

The Chapel Hill atmosphere set the Tar Heels apart

For many months, the talk around Pettaway’s recruitment has been around North Carolina. And that was accurate because the Tar Heels were high on his list, but he actually connected with Florida before North Carolina and Penn State was right there too.

Pettaway was only able to visit Penn State once and Florida twice. He tripped to Chapel Hill around half a dozen times and that played a big factor in his decision.

“I know everything about North Carolina,” Pettaway said. “I have been to a couple of games there, I have taken numerous visits and it is a great place.

“From the environment to the school, what they can do after football, how the coaches are, the nutrition program, and the whole atmosphere.

“Being familiar with North Carolina did make me feel really comfortable there.”

It is not just a good vibe for Pettaway in Chapel Hill, but it is one that feels like family. That was important to him.

“I think it is a Chapel Hill community thing, but on the football side, it starts with coach Brown. He cares about his players. He brings players into his home. Players are very comfortable with him. He builds strong relationships.

“The family atmosphere at North Carolina was big to me. It is a great feel for me there and it is a place I know I can be myself.”

757 connection was icing on the cake

Most of the North Carolina staff was involved with recruiting Pettaway. He knew he was a priority for the Tar Heels.

Brown was very much involved. Of course, running backs coach Larry Porter too. But the lead recruited was cornerbacks coach Dre Bly led the way.

The two have a special connection.

“Coach Bly is from the same area I am from, so he knows what I am about and where I am from,” Pettaway said. “We have that connection.

“Coach Bly played a big role in this decision. He is from the 757 and he is from the same side of the river I am from.

“We can talk about anything, any time. We can about life and I know he will help me when I get to North Carolina.

“Our connection is strong.”