Bill Belichick recognizes the significance of the UNC vs NC State rivalry.

Jason Jones

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Bill Belichick understands the importance of the UNC vs NC State rivalry image

TL;DR

  • Bill Belichick's college football coaching debut has faced challenges, with the team having numerous defeats.
  • The Tar Heels have endured two losing streaks this season and aim to end a two-game skid against NC State.
  • North Carolina seeks to break a four-game losing streak against in-state rival NC State.
  • NC State, with a 6-5 record, hopes for a postseason appearance and to continue their strong performance against UNC.

Bill Belichick's initial venture into college football coaching hasn't met expectations. The coach anticipated to make a significant impact in college football has faced considerable challenges throughout the season, confronting a schedule that featured only one ranked opponent.

The program, once hailed as the 33rd NFL franchise following Belichick's tenure, has experienced numerous defeats. This season alone, they've endured two distinct losing streaks. Belichick's squad aims to end their current two-game skid by competing against in-state adversary NC State this week.

Beyond aiming to improve their 4-7 standing, the Tar Heels will also strive to end a different losing streak. They've gone winless against NC State in their last four encounters. UNC's last victory over the Wolfpack was in 2020, when the former Broncos and current Cowboys running back achieved three touchdowns, leading North Carolina to a decisive win.

According to Yahoo Sports, the NFL is no stranger to rivalries. Considering Belichick’s time in the NFL, taking a rival seriously should not be new information to the long time Patriots coach. After North Carolina’s bowl eliminating loss to Duke, the head coach was asked about the NC State rivalry.

“I’m not, like, real smart,” Belichick said. ‘But I’ve learned that pretty quick. I understand the rivalry.”

With a 6-5 record, NC State maintains hopes for a postseason appearance. A further motivation will be continuing their strong performance against UNC. North Carolina is scheduled to play NC State at 7:30pm ET, with the game being shown on the ACC Network. 

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