The Tar Heels traveled to Dublin, Ireland, where they edged out the TCU Horned Frogs 15‑10 in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, a result that marked a clear step forward for the program after a turbulent first year under Bill Belichick.
Quarterback Billy Edwards showcased poise in his debut, throwing for 152 yards and connecting on four touchdown passes to Jordan Shipp and Jelani Thurman, a performance that underscored the offense’s newfound rhythm.
Defensively, the Tar Heels limited TCU to a single touchdown, with standout contributions from Melkart Abou Jaoude and Xavier Lewis, while the unit avoided penalties and turnovers in the first half, reflecting a disciplined approach.
Coach Bill Belichick praised the team’s execution on fourth‑down attempts and the overall culture he has cultivated, noting that the win validated the hard work invested during the offseason.
The arrival of veteran coach Bobby Petrino added an extra layer of strategic depth, and his collaboration with Belichick appears to be reshaping the squad’s identity heading into the 2026 season.
Looking Ahead
With the momentum built in Dublin, the Tar Heels are poised to translate their improved play into a strong start to the upcoming schedule, aiming to cement their rise under Belichick and Petrino.