Overview

• Multiple analysts label North Carolina’s slate one of the nation’s more manageable, with Pro Football Focus ranking it the eighth easiest and Clemson viewed as the toughest test after a Labor Day opener vs. TCU.
• Preseason expectations cluster around bowl eligibility: the ACC poll slots UNC at No. 8, DraftKings sets the win total at 7.5, Joel Klatt sees a path to eight wins, and Andy Staples pegs seven as the ceiling.
• UNC’s roster has been overhauled entering Year 1 under Bill Belichick, with reports noting 30 new commits and 42 transfers.
• Belichick is importing Patriots methods by teaching through NFL film and tightening media obligations, with UNC confirming he will only appear in the Carolina Football Live premiere before GM Mike Lombardi takes over.
• Observers anticipate defensive improvement from a unit that struggled last season, and running back Davion Gause lands on the Doak Walker Award watch list as a candidate for an expanded role.