Player of the game

Josh Nesbitt, Georgia Tech quarterback

The junior led the Yellow Jackets’ successful triple-option offensive attack that dominated the Tar Heels’ defense. Nesbitt ran for 97 yards and two touchdowns on 32 carries and was 7-of-11 for 89 yards in the air.

Play of the game

The UNC defense forced Georgia Tech into a rare punt in the third quarter, and the Tar Heels’ offense got the ball back on their 37 trailing 10-0. But quarterback T.J. Yates was picked off on the first play, and the Yellow Jackets’ offense converted the turnover into a score and a 17-0 lead.

Stat of the game

UNC recorded just eight first downs compared to Georgia Tech’s 24. The Yellow Jackets’ offense was on the field for what seemed like most of the game, and when the Tar Heels did get possession of the ball, they failed to move the chains.

What the loss means

The Tar Heels lost for the first time this season, dropping their ninth consecutive ACC opener. UNC will have to a take a long look at its offense, which failed to show up in Atlanta.

— BRIANA GORMAN