CHAPEL HILL – Preparation met opportunity last October for J.K. Britt.

A reserve safety for two-plus seasons and playing behind a senior who could end up in the NFL next fall, Britt got on the field occasionally, but knew it was about waiting for his time while being ready in case an unexpected opportunity paid him a visit.

That happened during the sixth game of the season, when Miles, a senior, went down with an injury that ended his North Carolina career.

So in stepped Britt, and as it turned out, he did pretty well. The 6-0, 200 pounder from Newnan, GA, started the final six games finishing the campaign with 53 tackles, an interception, forced a fumble and recovered a fumble.

Britt registered 9 tackles versus Virginia in his first start and 8 in the final game of the season, which was at N.C. State. His interception came in the fourth quarter of a tight game against Miami.

Now, the rising senior is the clear starter going into the 2018 season. So instead of having to win the job in camp without a great deal of game experience, Britt owns the job at strong safety and approached spring practice differently, which is carrying into the offseason.

“Going into last year, I was always staying ready, so when my name was called to be ready,” Britt said. “But now I’m going into it as I’m the guy. I’m going into it thinking the younger guys are looking up to me, I’m setting the example that you want to go into it at full speed.”

Did he see a dramatic change in his game from when he took over for Miles to the end of the season?

“I did. You play on and off you can never get into a groove of things, so you never get too comfortable there,” he said. “But, when I took on the role as a full-time starter, I got really comfortable and saw my game elevate a lot.”

Britt has worked on every aspect of his game, saying everything needed equal attention. Thus, his personal expectations are pretty high, as well.

He hasn’t set any personal goals for the season yet, but he knows everyone in that locker room is depending on him to play well. There’s not much experience behind him, so Britt must get the job done.

“He’s got experience now,” UNC Coach Larry Fedora said. “He’s a guy we expect to lead on the back end with Myles Dorn. He’s a guy that’s a solid tackler, a guy that’s experienced and should make plays for us.”

The player who most needs Britt to consistently get the job done has complete faith in him.

“He did a great job and got better last season,” junior free safety Myles Dorn said. “He’s my guy back there. I count on him a lot and trust him, I know he’s always going to be in the right place.”

Confidence from his coach and teammates and how own personal belief soaring, Britt just might be on the cusp of having a big season.