Overview
- NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero labeled the UNC experiment a “disaster,” citing staff disorganization, recruiting and transfer-portal struggles, and midseason departures such as Beau Atkinson to Ohio State.
- Per ESPN, the Tar Heels rank 95th of 136 in defensive stop rate at 56.9% and allow 2.55 points per drive, underscoring the defense’s underperformance under a coach known for that specialty.
- Hard Rock Bet listed former Florida coach Billy Napier as a leading replacement candidate, noting his 22–23 record alongside a reputation for strong recruiting.
- Belichick said the Hulu project chronicling his first season is paused rather than canceled, as Raleigh’s WRAL moves ahead with its own documentary while the original production continues filming in Chapel Hill.
- Public perception has worsened, with Cal’s scoreboard mocking UNC during a 21–18 loss and a satirical Duke Chronicle story briefly confusing some fans about Belichick leaving for Duke.