Although Durant couldn't produce the same spark against Texas, the redshirt freshman has impressed UNC coach John Bunting and offensive coordinator Gary Tranquill enough that Durant's entrance into the second half of Saturday's game against Florida State is already planned.
"We're not completely settled on it, but Darian will get into the ball game earlier than he has," Bunting said of Saturday's game plan. "There's a plan for it, as opposed to previously when there was no plan for Darian to get into the game."
Durant is 27 for 47 with two touchdowns and three interceptions. Starting quarterback Ronald Curry runs more than Durant and had trouble moving the ball against Oklahoma and Maryland. Durant has thrown for more yardage in two of three games.
"It just brings excitement," offensive tackle Greg Woofter said of Durant's play. "That's what the fans want."
Senior wideout Kory Bailey said he thought it was appropriate for Durant to get more playing time.
"He should get more playing time, Bailey said. "I don't think the receivers have a preference. We just have to try to make plays."
The wide receivers' ability to make plays is a sensitive issue following UNC's 44-14 loss to Texas. After the game, Bunting criticized the wideouts' play.
Four receivers caught eight passes for 115 yards. Bailey, who made one grab for 12 yards, said he didn't respond well to Bunting's comments.
True freshman receiver Chris Hawkins will make his debut against Florida State. He is one of four true freshmen scheduled to play against the Seminoles.
