Bill Belichick’s first year at North Carolina didn’t exactly go according to script. The Tar Heels stumbled to a 4-8 finish in 2025, including a 2-6 mark in ACC play.
For a coach with Belichick’s pedigree, even in a college setting, that’s a tough pill to swallow. And here's the kicker: that was the easier schedule.
Now, as Belichick enters his second season in Chapel Hill, the road ahead only gets steeper. The 2026 slate is loaded with heavyweights and potential landmines.
Eleven of UNC’s twelve opponents in 2025 finished with winning records, and seven of them hit the nine-win mark. Miami went 13-3 and reached the national championship game.
Notre Dame, at 10-2, was the first team out of the College Football Playoff. Duke and Virginia-yes, Duke and Virginia-played for the ACC title, with Virginia finishing 11-3.
In total, UNC’s 2026 opponents went a combined 103-55 last season. That’s not a schedule-it’s a gauntlet.
So, how is Belichick adjusting? It starts with change, and there’s been plenty of it.
A New Offensive Mind
UNC brought in veteran play-caller Bobby Petrino to run the offense. Say what you will about Petrino’s past, but he knows how to scheme up points, and that’s something the Tar Heels desperately needed.
Last year’s offense lacked identity and consistency. Belichick is betting that Petrino can bring both.
Quarterback Overhaul
The quarterback room has been completely reshaped. Out are Gio Lopez, Max Johnson, and Bryce Baker.
In come Billy Edwards Jr. from Wisconsin, Miles O’Neill from Texas A&M, and promising freshman Travis Burgess. It’s a full reset at the most important position on the field, and while that brings uncertainty, it also brings opportunity.
Edwards Jr. brings starting experience and a steady hand. O’Neill has the raw tools and upside that could make him a long-term answer.
And Burgess? He’s the wildcard-young, untested, but full of potential.
Expect a true competition in camp, and don’t be surprised if the Tar Heels rotate early in the season while they search for a leader under center.
Fresh Faces, Fresh Hope
Belichick and his staff also leaned heavily on the freshman class and the transfer portal to retool the roster. That’s become the modern way to rebuild in college football, and UNC is embracing it. The hope is that an influx of young talent and experienced transfers can raise the floor-and maybe the ceiling-of this team.
The 2026 Schedule
Let’s take a look at what UNC is up against:
- Aug. 29 vs. TCU (Dublin, Ireland): The season kicks off across the pond.
TCU is no cupcake, and the travel adds a layer of complexity. A win here could set the tone-or a loss could expose early growing pains.
- Sept. 12 vs. East Tennessee State: This should be a breather. If UNC struggles here, alarm bells will ring.
- Sept. 19 at Clemson: Death Valley in September? Clemson may not be the juggernaut of old, but they’re still dangerous, especially at home.
- Oct. 3 vs. Notre Dame: Another playoff-caliber opponent.
The Irish are deep, disciplined, and physical. This is a measuring-stick game.
- Oct. 10 at Pitt: Always a tough out, especially on the road. Pitt’s defense is typically stout, and they’ll test UNC’s new-look offense.
- Oct. 17 at Duke: Don’t laugh-Duke’s for real. They made the ACC title game last year and beat UNC in 2025. This one matters.
- Oct. 24 vs. Syracuse: A winnable game at home, but Syracuse has shown flashes. This could be a swing game in the season.
- Oct. 31 vs. Miami: Halloween matchup against a national title contender.
Miami is loaded. This one will demand UNC’s best.
- Nov. 7 at UConn: A break in the schedule, but a road game nonetheless. Trap game potential if UNC is looking ahead.
- Nov. 14 vs. Louisville: The Cardinals are always tricky. Expect a high-tempo battle.
- Nov. 21 at Virginia: A rematch with the defending ACC champs. Charlottesville won’t be kind.
- Nov. 28 vs. NC State: Rivalry game to close the season. Emotions will be high, and bragging rights are on the line.
The Bottom Line
This is a pivotal year for Belichick in Chapel Hill. Year one was about laying the foundation, even if the results were underwhelming.
Year two? It’s about showing progress-on the field, in the win column, and in the way this team competes.
The schedule won’t do UNC any favors, but if the new quarterback room clicks, if Petrino can jumpstart the offense, and if the young talent matures quickly, the Tar Heels could surprise some folks. It won’t be easy. But then again, Belichick didn’t come to college football for easy.