The 22-yard touchdown pass was thrown by Jeremy Moussa.
Without 25 ineligible players, and playing with just seven available offensive linemen, Florida A&M authored an impressive performance before succumbing to North Carolina.
The Rattlers were within a touchdown of the Tar Heels at halftime, but the depth and skill of the Tar Heels took over in the second.
Willie Simmons said that he couldn't speak enough about the character and resolve of the team. This is a group of men. Tonight, we proved we were here. We were able to open some eyes. I am very excited to lead this group of men.
Josh Downs had nine catches for 72 yards and two scores in the Tar Heels win.
The chains moved for North Carolina as Florida A&M's lack of depth began to show. He had 14 runs for 101 yards and two touchdown.
Florida A&M arrived with a reduced roster. Land was the leader in sacks in the Football Championship Subdivision last year.
After learning that the offensive linemen were ineligible, the team initially decided not to play. The team decided to travel to North Carolina to play the season opener.
Simmons said that the players decided not to play because they didn't feel comfortable under those conditions. The players decided to play the game after a few more discussions. I support these young men 100% and I'm proud of them for advocating for themselves.
Downs' 2-yard touchdown catch with 5 seconds left in the first half gave the Rattlers their only lead of the game and they went on to win.
The game between Florida A&M and the University of North Carolina is part of a celebration of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Maye is the younger brother of a basketball player. He had a couple accomplishments in the victory. He is the first North Carolina player to throw five touchdown in a season opener and the first to connect for five touchdown in his first career game.
The AP contributed.
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