In a big new chapter for college football, famous NFL coach Bill Belichick is making news not on Sundays, but on Saturdays. Now in charge of the University of North Carolina’s football team, Belichick is changing the game of getting new players with a mix of NFL skill and hard-core style.
His new win: getting a yes from four-star safety Jamarrion Gordon, once with Alabama and UCF. Gordon, top from Jackson High School in Alabama, said his skill in defense was a big part in his choice:
“Why not go play for one of the greatest defensive coaches in the world?” he said to On3 as soon as hhe shared his commitment.
Love and hate for Belichick
But not all are into the Belichick magic. Keshawn Stancil, a top local defensive player, said no to the coach after picking NC State over UNC. In a sharp Instagram note, Stancil wrote, “I seen a bum commit to UNC. Then Bill called. I felt played, so I went to the owners.” The note, with photos in NC State gear, made this hot time about getting new players a bit hotter.
Still, Belichick’s effect is clear. UNC’s 2026 group now sits in the top 25 in the country, a big jump from before. His team, full of NFL experience, has also made moves in the transfer space, getting the ninth-best group in the country.
NFL experience for a young group
The waves across the ACC are clear. Belichick’s arrival adds a touch of fame and news attention that the conference has missed lately. With Clemson down and Florida State not steady, the ACC has been behind the Big Ten and SEC in both play and money. Belichick’s presence could turn that around, by pulling in top players, upping TV views, and moving UNC from a basketball school to a strong football contender.
As Belichick gets ready for his first game against TCU on September 1, all eyes are on Chapel Hill. Can the man with eight Super Bowl rings make the Tar Heels a top college football team?And, in doing so, change the power in the ACC?
If the new player picks are any sign, the answer might be yes.
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