North Carolina HC Bill Belichick Took High Road With Media After Big Win

North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick had every right to make a few jokes at the expense of the national media after beating TCU on Saturday in Dublin, Ireland.

The general consensus seemed to be that Belichick was nearing the hot seat with a 4-8 record last season, general manager Michael Lombardi on paid administrative leave, and reports suggesting the staff was ill-prepared to handle the responsibilities of running a college program.

TCU was a near touchdown favorite to beat the Tar Heels, but Belichick's defense won the game. North Carolina gritted out a 15-10 win over the Horned Frogs, who were a recipient of bad press of their own before the contest.

During his postgame news conference, Belichick was asked by reporters what the win meant for him personally and what he thought of the trip to Ireland. Belichick took the humble approach, praising Dublin and saying his goal was just to win.

“It was a great experience for all of our student athletes to come over here and play in Dublin," Belichick said, via Inside Carolina. "You know, it’s a great city. We enjoyed driving around as much as we did. 

"Going from place to place here from the stadium to the hotel and a couple other events we hit. That was great. A big focus for us though to come out and win the game, and that was our goal. You know, maybe the guys will see a little bit more of the city tonight.”

The administration didn't appear to be happy with some of the happenings with Belichick's program when questions were asked during training camp about Lombardi. The second-year head coach made sure to thank North Carolina fans for their support.

"It almost felt like a home game," Belichick said. "Certainly, there was a lot of support here, and that was awesome. It was fantastic to see our fans come and support us.

"It’s a long way to go for a football game, and I think speaks to the to the pride in Carolina from our fans, and especially our alumni, we spent time with them in a couple different events this week... And we appreciate their support. It’d be hard to have a successful program without the support that they’ve given us.”

North Carolina will play its next game at home against ETSU in Week 3 on Sept. 12.