News:A.J. Blue is proving to be a leader this spring, and is currently in position to start according to the Gaston Gazette.
Analysis:A.J. Blue is competing with Romar Morris and freshman Khris Francis to replace Gio Bernard. Blue may lead this battle now, but he's not nearly the dynamic, home run threat of Bernard, or Morris. He'll have value come September, but is likely looking at a shared backfield.
News:A.J. Blue ran eight times for 57 yards and two touchdowns Saturday against Virginia Tech.
Analysis: The Heels ran for 339 yards, and A.J. Blue benefited from relieving Gio Bernard. Blue remains tremendously capable, but a handcuff only.
News:A.J. Blue ran twice for 15 yards and added 13 yards receiving on one grab Saturday against East Carolina.
Analysis:A.J. Blue filled in admirably for Giovani Bernard, but with Bernard back, Blue is back to the bench. He's no more than a handcuff at this point.
News:A.J. Blue ran seven times for 43 yards Saturday at Louisville.
Analysis: UNC trailed 29-0 and 36-7, and abandoned the run early. The 6.1 yards per carry average Saturday is attractive, and A.J. Blue will continue to lead this rushing attack until Giovani Bernard (knee) returns.
News:A.J. Blue is listed as a co-starter with Romar Morris and the injured Giovani Bernard on the team's newly released depth chart.
Analysis:A.J. Blue is becoming a valuable commodity as more than a Bernard handcuff. Something doesn't smell right regarding Bernard's status, and Blue could be in line for a sizable workload for more than just another week.
News:A.J. Blue ran 19 times for 106 yards and a touchdown Saturday at Wake Forest.
Analysis:A.J. Blue ran incredibly hard, but his value will be limited as long as Giovani Bernard is healthy.
News:A.J. Blue ran nine times for 39 yards and two touchdowns against Elon on Saturday.
Analysis:A.J. Blue benefited from a minor injury to Gio Bernard, but was used in short yardage situations with the starting unit in the first half. It's not unreasonable to see Blue emerging as a goal line back in Chapel Hill.
News: North Carolina's A.J. Blue is back playing running back now, and currently running with the top unit while Ryan Houston and Giovanni Bernard heal.
Analysis: Blue was one of my super sleepers coming into camp, but more because of his quarterbacking history, and potential to play some Wildcat for the 'Heels. While Bernard and Houston are expected to be fine, neither has been a picture of health in their time in Chapel Hill. Blue is more than capable, he just needs an opportunity.
