Bill Belichick’s debut as North Carolina’s head coach could not have gotten off to a better start. But you would not have guessed it from his facial expressions.
The Tar Heels executed Belichick’s playbook to perfection on their opening drive Monday against the TCU Horned Frogs at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill, N.C. The home team, which began the drive at its own 17, went the length of the field for a touchdown on seven plays.
The drive included a wicked 39-yard pass from quarterback Gio Lopez that got North Carolina right outside the red zone. Star running back Caleb Hood later muscled his way into the end zone for the score.
GIO LOPEZ RIGHT OUT THE GATE 🔥
📺 @espn x @UNCFootball pic.twitter.com/BBlTU4Y8dZ
— ACC Football (@ACCFootball) September 2, 2025
The ESPN camera panned to Belichick after his team took an early 7-0 lead. The man did not display an ounce of excitement, and fans were quick to point that out.
Belichick’s stoicism contrasted against the pageantry and absurdity of college football is going to be endless content. pic.twitter.com/K7Ymygx4GD
— Dave Helman (@davehelman_) September 2, 2025
Bill Belichick is overcome with joy after UNC’s first touchdown of the season pic.twitter.com/8KEJxJWpC2
— Underdog (@Underdog) September 2, 2025
*North Carolina executes a picture perfect 4 minute 80 yard TD drive*
Bill Belichick: pic.twitter.com/ral7pfvS3b
— Ben Houselog (@benlikessport) September 2, 2025
Given Belichick’s screen time track record in the NFL, nobody should be surprised that he didn’t turn into Jim Harbaugh just because his short-sleeved hoodie has “North Carolina” emblazoned on it. The man has kept a straight face for 99 percent of his decorated NFL coaching career.
Bill’s legendary stoicicism is part of the reason why his relationship with 24-year-old Jordon Hudson has fascinated football fans. It’s been hard to separate the stern-faced Belichick from the one hoisting Hudson up with his legs on the beach.
With several high-profile UNC alums in attendance, Hudson was right there supporting her man while standing next to Randy Moss.