North Carolina is on a bye in Week 7 after a frustrating start to the season. The Tar Heels were blown out 38-10 by the Clemson Tigers in Week 6, dropping the program to 2-3 under first-year head coach Bill Belichick.
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Earlier this week, WRAL reported “culture” problems within UNC’s locker room. On Tuesday, North Carolina suspended cornerbacks coach Armond Hawkins for allegedly providing impermissible benefits to the families of players. There were rumors that Belichick and the Tar Heels discussed buyout options.
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On Wednesday evening, North Carolina and Belichick released a joint statement to shut down rumors that the program was getting set to move on from the six-time Super Bowl champion head coach. Belichick wrote he was “fully committed” to UNC. Bubba Cunningham, the director of athletics for UNC, stated Belichick had “full support” from the athletic department and the university.
More evidence surfaced Friday night that Belichick plans to stay at North Carolina.
Emmett Siegel of the Washington Post posted a photo on X of Belichick watching a high school football game between Good Counsel and DeMatha in Olney, Maryland.
As Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports pointed out, Belichick was busy hitting the recruiting trail during North Carolina’s bye week, suggesting the head coach is still looking for talent to help the Tar Heels beyond this season.
Belichick needs to use the remaining seven games of the season to help land recruits so the program can be more successful in 2026 than it was to begin his tenure in Chapel Hill.
Following Saturday’s loss to Clemson, Belichick said he’s been honest with recruits about the long-term plan the Tar Heels have to build the program.
“We’re honest with them, honest that we’re building, and if you want to be a part of a program that’s being built, then we’re here for you,” Belichick said via ESPN.
North Carolina will next travel to play California on Oct. 17.
For more on the NCAA, head to Newsweek Sports.
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