Bill Belichick Makes College Coaching Debut at North Carolina with Star-Studded Support

Chapel Hill, N.C. — September 1, 2025 — Bill Belichick, the six-time Super Bowl–winning coach, officially began his first season in college football as head coach of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. His debut at Kenan Stadium drew national attention and an array of high-profile figures from across the sports world.

Belichick, hired in late 2024, brings decades of NFL experience but had never previously coached at the collegiate level. His appointment was seen as a major shift for the Tar Heels program, which has sought to raise its national profile. His ties to UNC go back decades — his father once coached there, and Belichick himself mentored Lawrence Taylor, one of the university’s most famous football alumni, during their years together with the New York Giants.

The opening game carried the feel of a cultural event. Among the crowd were NBA legend and UNC alumnus Michael Jordan, Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor, former basketball coach Roy Williams, soccer star Mia Hamm, musicians Eric Church and Chase Rice, Yankees manager Aaron Boone, and NFL greats Julius Peppers and Randy Moss. Their presence underscored the significance of Belichick’s debut in Chapel Hill.

UNC has embraced the start of what many are calling a new era, introducing updated pregame traditions and leaning into the national spotlight Belichick has brought to the program. His arrival has also sparked optimism about the Tar Heels’ competitiveness in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Belichick’s first test came on Labor Day night against TCU, one of the most anticipated openers of the season. With a revamped roster and a coach renowned for discipline and preparation, North Carolina entered the game looking to establish itself as a serious contender under his leadership.

Sources, USA Today, Daily Mail, People, SB Nation and New Yorker