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Bill Belichick finally got something right at UNC
USA Today • • general
Key Points:
- North Carolina, under Bill Belichick, won their first football game of the 2026 season in Ireland, marking only their fifth victory in 13 games since Belichick took over as head coach.
- The win was heavily influenced by offensive coordinator Bob Petrino, who joined the team after a tumultuous coaching career and helped simplify the offense by focusing on getting the ball to the best players.
- The Tar Heels managed just 322 yards and relied on TCU's multiple turnovers and penalties, including a crucial safety and fumble, to secure the victory as 9.5-point underdogs.
- Belichick's team overcame significant challenges, including a quarterback playing for his fourth team and 60 new players, and did so without defensive coordinator Stephen Belichick, who was on medical leave.
- Petrino's conservative game plan emphasized ball control and rushing, resembling traditional NFL strategies, which helped North Carolina protect their lead and end a difficult stretch under Belichick's leadership.
