The Tar Heels (3-0, 3-0 ACC) should certainly be confident going into Saturday's game against Florida State and not just because of their early success. The Seminoles (1-3, 0-3) currently rank last in the ACC in scoring defense, allowing 37.2 points per game. Longo said the Tar Heels' staff allows players to voice what plays they like best, which has helped lead to their success starting games. Longo said they tend to run those plays early on to establish a tempo. Howell is 14 of 18 passing on first drives for 181 yards and two touchdowns. Carter and junior running back Javonte Williams have combined to rush 13 times for 96 yards and a touchdown on first possessions.Carolina is 7 for 8 in third down conversions. The Heels didn't get a third-and-20 against Syracuse, but converted a four-and-7 with an 18-yard reception by senior wide receiver Dazz Newsome. "I always ask our guys for their top 10 plays, a lot of that input from them goes into our little checklists for the opening drive," he said. The Heels seem to have that checklist down pat, now they have to focus on keeping that same energy throughout the game. Their 56-45 win over VT was the first game they felt the offense stayed in sync for the better part of the game. Against the Orange and Eagles, it was a bit disjointed. "We do start fast and we do finish fast," Carter told reporters in a video conference. "I think where our point of emphasis that we need to get better on is the second and third quarter." - Raleigh News Observer