Lonnie Galloway explains how UNC receivers are preparing through UNC quarterback competition

North Carolina Tar Heels wide receivers coach Lonnie Galloway is being given a difficult task ahead of the 2022 season. He needs to get his receivers prepared without actually knowing who the starting quarterback is going to be.

For the past three seasons, Sam Howell was in place to distribute the ball all over the field. Capable of making throws all over the field, he’ll be difficult to replace. Naturally, UNC is taking its time in making this decision. For now, Jacolby Criswell and Drake Maye are competing for the job.

The problem for the wide receivers is that this splits their reps up and can make it more difficult to build chemistry and trust with their quarterback. This chemistry is incredibly important when running routes based on timing or defensive reads.

So, how is Lonnie Galloway preparing North Carolina’s wide receivers this offseason?

“The biggest thing with that is being able to go when they’re throwing,” Galloway said in a press conference. “You know because their quarterback battle–whoever ends up getting it–when they throw, go throw with all of them.”

Galloway would also go on to insist that it’s important for every wide receiver to be working with both Criswell and Maye every time they throw. Essentially, even though they may not know who the quarterback is going to be, they still need to get their reps in with each quarterback. Otherwise, they won’t have their timing down once the season starts.

When the starting quarterback is a known quantity, it’s easier for wide receivers to focus on building that singular relationship. North Carolina’s wide receivers don’t have that luxury, though. So, Lonnie Galloway will have them prepare for either outcome.