The hype of college football has returned. With the kickoff of Thursday night’s game between Vanderbilt University and the University of South Carolina, NCAA football action officially got underway. For the Elon University Phoenix, things are no different as they take on in-state and Atlantic Coast Conference foe the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Saturday afternoon.

There is no doubt that Elon students are looking forward to the game.

“I am going to the game with some friends and I’m pumped,” said freshman Megan Murtagh. “I know it’s going to be nuts.”

Elon, like a lot of Football Championship Subdivision schools, has scheduled several Football Bowl Subdivision schools to open their season in the past few years and have struggled, losing 41-27 to Duke University Sept. 4, 2010, and 45-14 to Vanderbilt University Sept. 3 last year. Breaking that streak will be no easy task, as they travel to take on the Tar Heels.

[box]On the Field
You've heard what students say about the Elon-UNC game on Saturday. Read what the players say.[divider_flat] [/box]

“I think it is a really great idea to open the season against a tough opponent,” said sophomore Alex Rossetti, a member of the Elon golf team. “If we play well, win or lose, it can definitely provide momentum for the rest of the season.”

Kenan Memorial Stadium in Chapel Hill is sure to be packed with a sea of baby blue, but Elon fans will be there to show their support.

“Elon fans always go out and show support, whether it be current students or alumni,” said senior Tyrice Johnson, who will be attending his first ever Elon away game. “That’s what makes the atmosphere so great.”

Senior Nathaniel Hodges, the drum major of the Fire of the Carolinas, Elon’s pep band, also likes the idea of opening the season against North Carolina.

“I really enjoy playing against bigger school because we get to see what we can really do,” Hodges said.

He is also excited about the opportunity his band gets from playing at a game like this.

“It’s rare to get to get to play in front of so many people so it’s nice that we get to showcase ourselves,” he said.

Senior Aaron Smith, Jr., a guard on Elon’s men’s basketball team, was born in Raleigh and calls himself a Tar Heels fan.

“I think Elon will keep it close for the first two quarters but UNC’s size and speed will show in the second half and they will wear us down,” he said.

Rossetti agrees.

“I think the game will be close,” he said “We have some really great players on our squad. I’m sure they will make us proud.”

Johnson thinks otherwise.

“I think Elon will win 27-24,” Johnson said. “I think UNC will underestimate Elon’s fight and talent.”

Either way, Phoenix fans are looking forward to a good game Saturday afternoon.