Bill Belichick era at North Carolina off to a quick start Monday

Rodney Knuppel

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Bill Belichick era at North Carolina off to a quick start Monday image

 It did not take long for the Bill Belichick era to get started quickly at the University of North Carolina.

Quarterback Gio Lopez needed just two passes for 58 yards, while Caleb Hood took care of the rest of the business, rushing three times for 25 yards.

4:05 into the game, the Tar Heels led the TCU Horned Frogs 7-0.

Belichick, born in 1952, is considered one of the most successful coaches in football history. Over his decades-long NFL career, he built a reputation for unmatched preparation, innovation, and championship results.

Belichick won six Super Bowls as the head coach of the New England Patriots and two more as an assistant with the New York Giants, cementing his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

In December 2024, Belichick shocked the sports world by accepting the head coaching position at the University of North Carolina. The move marked his first step into the college ranks after a lifetime in the NFL. He agreed to a five-year contract valued at roughly $10 million annually, a groundbreaking figure in college football.

The hiring drew major attention not only because of Belichick’s legendary résumé but also because of his personal ties, his father once coached at UNC. Now, Tar Heels fans eagerly await what impact he will bring to Chapel Hill.

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Belichick and the Tar Heels will have a short turnaround, as they are on the road at the Charlotte 49ers on Saturday in a big in-state battle. North Carolina will finish their ACC slate at home against Richmond and a road game at Central Florida on September 20.

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Rodney Knuppel

Rodney Knuppel is a freelance writer for The Sporting News. When not watching, listening or writing about sports, Rodney enjoys following the travels of his three kids, who are all active in their own sports and activities. A huge St. Louis Cardinals fan, Rodney also enjoys St. Louis Blues hockey and is a big Kansas Jayhawks basketball fan.