With Gio Lopez dealing with an injury, it is uncertain who will start at quarterback for North Carolina on Saturday when the Tar Heels host Clemson.

Lopez has been hampered by a lower-body injury and was not able to practice last week ahead of North Carolina’s open date. Backup Max Johnson took the first-string reps in Lopez’s absence.

“We’ll see what he’s able to do today,” head coach Bill Belichick said during his weekly press conference on Tuesday. “He didn’t do much last week, but he’s been in here every day, working hard and getting treatment, so we’ll see where he’s at today.”

Lopez had a breakout season at South Alabama last season and entered the transfer portal back in the spring before landing at North Carolina. He emerged as one of the most productive G5 quarterbacks in the nation last fall when he led the Jaguars to a 7-6 finish in coach Major Applewhite’s first season. Lopez completed 66% of his passes for 2,559 yards and 18 touchdowns in 11 starts, adding another 465 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.

However, the transition has not been smooth. During the Heels’ 2-2 start, Lopez is averaging just 107.5 passing yards per game with three touchdowns and three interceptions. Johnson, who has appeared in two games this season, has thrown for 170 yards total and two touchdowns.

Even if Lopez is healthy, Belichick hinted at the possibility of Johnson still getting the nod.

“When Gio is able to practice, we’ll see how much improvement he has made and can make,” Belichick said. “If he’s not (improving), then other players will be in there.”

Clemson (1-3) and North Carolina will kick off at noon, and the game will be televised on ESPN. Both teams are looking for their first win of the season against a Power-4 opponent.

Photo courtesy of Bob Donnan-Imagn Images