CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In the strange world of modern college football, it's not all that uncommon to play a game against your alma mater.
"The way it worked out. You can't beat it," Justin Olson, a Charlotte 49ers wide receiver and UNC grad said.
Charlotte travels to Chapel Hill to take on the Tar Heels on Saturday afternoon.
Last week the Charlotte native suited up as a college football player in his hometown for the first time, a 30-7 loss to James Madison.
"I'm very family-oriented and it's been so good for me," Olson said.
And on Saturday, Olson will go against his former team.
"It was amazing. I was at a winning program at Chapel Hill, and I learned from a Hall of Fame Head Coach (Mack Brown)," he said.
Olson, a North Meck High School grad, played four years for the Tar Heels, catching passes from current pro quarterbacks Drake Maye and Sam Howell.
"It was truly helpful for my career," Olson said.
After getting his degree from Chapel Hill, Olson moved on to Middle Tennessee State.
Away from home. And not exactly the experience he envisioned.
"It was truly interesting to say the least," Olson said. "I'm grateful for it."
The Blue Raiders finished 4-8, and their longtime coach Rick Stockstill was fired.
"It was very difficult for me," Olson said. "I was out there alone, I was homesick, but I learned so much about myself. I wouldn't change it for the world."
Olson was thrilled to find his final college football opportunity here at home, helping Charlotte find winning ways as a program.
"I was born and raised in Charlotte, never have seen this program be good," he said. "I know the city is dying for a winning team and winning culture so I can't wait to bring that for us."
Contact Nick Carboni at ncarboni@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.