| Lewis fits the mold of a change-of-pace, third-down back – smaller and quick – but he is strong for his size. The 5-10, 192-pound back holds Tar Heel running back records in two weight-lifting categories as well as the long jump.
He did prove to be a big-play back for the Heels, though, averaging 5.4 yards per carry during his four-year collegiate career, including 6.1 as a junior and a career-high 7.5 as a senior. In 2003, he was responsible for three of North Carolina’s six longest plays from scrimmage. Last year, while sharing time in the backfield with Chad Scott, Lewis ran 74 times for 569 yards and three touchdowns.
Lewis’ four-year totals at UNC include 321 carries for 1,746 yards and seven touchdowns, plus 61 receptions for 545 yards and five scores. He was used most extensively as a receiver in his 2003 junior year, catching 34 passes for 391 yards and a team-high five receiving touchdowns. He was the Tar Heels’ second-leading receiver and third-leading rusher that season.
As a sophomore in 2002, Lewis started nine games and led the team in rushing with 574 yards on 130 carries, scoring two touchdowns. He also played extensively on special teams that year, contributing nine kick-coverage tackles. In 2001, he was one of only seven true freshman to play for the Tar Heels, pitching in with 241 yards and a touchdown on 56 carries. |
