UNC Slapped With Brutal Bill Belichick Reality Check

The North Carolina Tar Heels made a major move to bring in legendary New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick before the 2025 season.

Belichick had a rough first season with the Tar Heels, finishing 4-8. North Carolina has also faced a ton of controversy during Belichick's tenure, including general manager Michael Lombardi resigning from his position.

"Yes, they should regret hiring Bill Belichick. And yes, I think it will end sooner rather than later," ESPN's Kevin Clark said.

Belichick may be let go by the program at some point, but for now, he will look to build upon their win over TCU in the first game of the season.

It was an impressive win for the Tar Heels, with the defense leading the way, holding TCU to 10 points. Xavier Lewis had a major impact as a pass rusher, finishing with two sacks, while Melkart Abou-Jaoude also added a sack. 

On offense, quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. completed 16 of 28 passes for 232 yards and did not find the end zone. Tight end Jelani Thurman was the leading receiver, with four receptions for 94 yards.

In the run game, Jaylen McGill scored a touchdown while rushing for 33 yards on five carries.

North Carolina has some momentum as they enter a matchup against East Tennessee State on Saturday, September 12th. If the Tar Heels are able to pick up two wins to start the season, it could give them a chance heading into their Week 3 matchup against the Clemson Tigers.

North Carolina has their work cut out for them to make it to the ACC Title Game. However, they are more talented and performed at a higher level in their opening game of the season than last year, giving them a chance to be a more competitive program.

Belichick is one of the greatest coaches in NFL history, as he won six Super Bowls as the head coach of the Patriots. While his time with the Tar Heels has faced a ton of controversy thus far, he could turn the program around and prove the doubters wrong after a big win to start the 2026 season.