Former South Alabama QB Gio Lopez has officially ended his NCAA transfer portal journey, transferring to the North Carolina Tar Heels for the 2025 season. His departure from South Alabama comes after a standout 2024 season in which he showcased elite dual-threat ability and on-field leadership.
What Gio Lopez Brings to the Table at North Carolina
As a redshirt freshman, Lopez quickly emerged as a force for South Alabama:
- Passing: Completed 205 of 311 attempts for 2,559 yards and 18 touchdowns, with just five interceptions. He finished the season with a 65.9% completion rate.
- Rushing: Added 465 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 82 carries, showing off his mobility and playmaking skills.
- Record-Setting Start: Opened the season by setting a school record with 432 passing yards and 62 rushing yards in a single game, totaling 494 yards of offense in a win over North Texas.
- Bowl Game MVP: Led South Alabama to a win in the 68 Ventures Bowl, throwing three touchdown passes and rushing for another in a 59-10 win over Eastern Michigan.
Lopez’s breakout campaign earned him national and conference-wide attention:
- All-Sun Belt Honorable Mention
- Top 25 in Total Offense: Ranked 22nd nationally with 274.7 total yards per game.
While details surrounding Lopez’s name, image and likeness (NIL) agreements have not been disclosed, his rising profile and impressive numbers made him a prime candidate for future big-time deals.
As Lopez explored new opportunities through the transfer portal, multiple programs in need of a dynamic and proven quarterback were quick to pursue him. With his accuracy, mobility and leadership, Lopez was said to be one of the top options in the portal this year.
It should be no surprise that Bill Belichick and the Tar Heels quickly scooped in and secured his commitment just a day after he hit the portal.
Also Read: Oregon Football: Makhi Hughes Clears the Air on His Commitment to Ducks, Cites Brother’s Influence
No matter where he was set to land, however, Gio Lopez was always set to make an impact. Now that impact has been magnified with his commitment to UNC.
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