UNC Overcomes Preseason Drama As Bill Belichick Earns Signature Win
UNC GM Michael Lombardi was placed on paid leave in July.
North Carolina's 2026 season kickoff under Bill Belichick's leadership concluded with a 15-10 upset victory over TCU in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. This marked a stark contrast to last year's 48-14 defeat in Belichick's inaugural game at Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels' win, buoyed by the play of quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. and an improved defense, came despite preseason distractions like the departure of general manager Michael Lombardi and the absence of defensive coordinator Steve Belichick.
Head coach Belichick himself stepped in to call defensive plays for the first time since 2019. While the win isn't a guarantee of a College Football Playoff appearance or an ACC title, it signifies a step forward for the program, which entered the season with low expectations.
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- UNC Overcomes Preseason Drama As Bill Belichick Earns Signature Win frontofficesports.com
