Raleigh__  It's really hard to make a prediction on a team that seems to be on the unstable side of things.  That's really the bottom line about this years' version of the Tar Heels.

I listened to John Bunting's radio show tonight and one thing struck home.  We don't have a team and program that has turned things around.  But the Beast said that we're getting there.  And I think he's leading the coaching staff and players in the right direction.

So how can we know which team will show up against Dook?  Will it be the one that stunned Florida State, then played an almost perfect game down in Death Valley?  Or will we see the one that came out for the second half last week at home against Wake Forest?

The Heels have accomplished a number of very good milestones this season.  And I'm really proud of them.  Bunting's admitted calling a few "bone-head" plays.  Some of the players have admitted that they just didn't execute at times as a team.  Either one can have a negative impact on the game and swing the momentum.  And both combined will make the most avid Carolina fan cry.

To paraphrase Bunting, he's going about the task at hand to change the culture surrounding Carolina Football.  Yes, players and coaches have their work to do.  But Bunting repeatedly is trying to bring out the best within our fans too.  Mack whined and preached.  And I don't remember Carl touching the subject much, if at all.  But John is reaching out and trying to encourage the Carolina fans to learn when and how to cheer and support the players on the field, participate in the game.

I've preached for a good while about having fans that participate in the game verses fans who come for the event and many other reasons.  And as more and more fans begin to participate, becoming a solid 12th Man, then the socialite fans will have fewer people to visit with or to try to impress with their wardrobe and conversation.  Like it or not, fans are a big part of a football program.  But we're getting there.  I'm proud of Section 108.  We're trying to bring the home field advantage!

So Ram Man, aren't you going to make a prediction on the game?  OK, let's go for it.  I'm thinking the Heels will roar out to a 10 to 14 point lead.  But I don't think we've seen the last of the complacency that sits in with our success.  Dook will score fairly early to make it closer than everyone thought it would be?  But I think the Wake Forest was a great learning experience for our team.

Our coaches will be sharp and make great in game adjustments.  Our players will become more and more focused as the game goes on.  We will finally see a hint of a killer instinct growing within them collectively.  And our fans won't be doing that silly wave when we have the ball.

In fact our fair weather Carolina fans may stay at home.  I wouldn't be surprised to see a smaller crowd this Saturday.  But you know what?  Those people weren't really participating in the game anyway.  So I still expect to see a nice fan reaction to Bunting's encouragement.  We can still be as loud.

Last year we had them 52 - 7 at the half.  That won't happen Saturday.  But with a steady 60 minute game by the Heels, we bring the heat to the Dookies.  The Heels are due a focused, 100% effort game.  I say, Carolina 56 - Dook 21. But wouldn't it be fun to see another Clemson style game?  It's not on TV, so you'd better come to Kenan.  Hope you'll join our tailgate party in the Dean Dome lot, either before or after the game.