Belichick, UNC Score Biggest Win Yet After Rocky Offseason

Bill Belichick led North Carolina to a 21-17 victory over No. 25 Pittsburgh, marking the Tar Heels' first win over a ranked opponent under their new coach and their first win after trailing by 10 points in a game since 2022. The Tar Heels (3-2, 1-1 in the ACC) took advantage of Pittsburgh being without their starting quarterback, Mason Heintschel, and held the Panthers' offense below their average of 38.4 points per game.

Backup Holden Greiner, who threw two interceptions in his first start, contributed to the win. Belichick acknowledged it was "a gusty win" and attributed it to both teams making big plays. Offseason turmoil included the resignations of general manager Michael Lombardi and defensive coordinator Steve Belichick, as well as an investigation that led to the school determining certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina's values.

Despite the offseason challenges, North Carolina appears to have turned the corner in the wake of Belichick's acquisition of a new roster. After signing a five-year, $50 million contract in December, Belichick relied heavily on the transfer portal, adding 41 transfers and having 50 players transfer out. In contrast, this past year's strategy was more focused on high school prospects, with 40 signings, 19 transfers, and 32 transfers out, resulting in a recruiting class that ranked 22nd nationally.

Now, the Tar Heels are close to returning to bowl eligibility and head coach Belichick's next statement was, "We'll just get ready for Duke."