Overview
- UNC announced the hire Friday, with Bill Belichick calling Petrino an elite coaching talent in a school release.
- The Tar Heels averaged 19.3 points and 288.8 yards per game last season, finishing near the bottom of the ACC and FBS in both categories.
- Petrino spent the past two seasons at Arkansas and served as interim head coach in 2025, with the Razorbacks producing about 455 yards per game for a top‑20 national finish and 32.9 points per game.
- Belichick parted ways with offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens on Dec. 12 after a 4–8 season and a steep offensive decline.
- Petrino’s résumé spans 19 seasons as a head coach or coordinator, featuring multiple top‑10 offenses and notable quarterback development, including Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson at Louisville.