Belichick's UNC opens season vs TCU in Dublin

Bill Belichick's second season as head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels begins on Saturday, August 29, 2026, with a season-opening game against the TCU Horned Frogs at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. The matchup marks a pivotal moment for Belichick, who faces significant pressure to improve after a disappointing 4-8 debut season in 2025. The Tar Heels' first year under the legendary NFL coach fell far short of expectations. After opening the 2025 campaign with a loss to TCU, the team managed only two more wins before finishing with a losing record. That performance has placed Belichick's job security under scrutiny as he enters a five-year, $50 million contract.