Overview

• The six-time Super Bowl winner makes his college head-coaching debut when North Carolina hosts TCU at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN from Kenan Stadium.
• South Alabama transfer Gio Lopez was named the Tar Heels’ starting quarterback for the opener after a preseason competition.
• Belichick overhauled UNC with an NFL-style staff and front office — including Steve and Brian Belichick and offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens — plus a large transfer class and more restricted practice access.
• UNC reports season tickets and single-game seats are sold out, and multiple outlets say a celebrity contingent led by Michael Jordan, Mia Hamm, Julius Peppers and Lawrence Taylor is expected.
• Off-field storylines persist, including UNC’s denial that Jordon Hudson was banned from facilities, a forthcoming Hulu behind-the-scenes show, and reporting that Belichick’s buyout dropped to $1 million on June 1.