Bill Belichick Reflects on First Win as College Football Coach
Bill Belichick secured his first victory as head coach of North Carolina on Saturday with a 20-3 win over Charlotte, but the seasoned coach was quick to credit his players and staff for the result. The offense showed improved cohesion compared to their Week 1 loss to TCU, and the defense played a key role, forcing two turnovers to prevent Charlotte from gaining any momentum.
“It’s great, but it’s really about the team,” Belichick said. “The players made the plays tonight, and the staff did a great job. We were disappointed after Monday night against TCU, but these guys bounced back—players, coaches, staff, support staff—everyone. They got back to work and were determined to improve, so I’m really proud of what they did. They’re the ones who deserve the credit tonight.”
Quarterback Gio Lopez had a strong outing, completing 17 of 25 passes for 155 yards, a touchdown, and adding 52 yards on the ground. Running back Davion Gause also contributed, rushing five times for 30 yards and a touchdown. North Carolina built a comfortable 17-3 lead by halftime and went on to claim the win—something that Belichick felt was crucial for his team.
“Coaching is coaching,” Belichick explained. “You try to do your best to help your team win, considering what the other team does schematically or strategically, and based on personnel matchups. That’s the same whether in the NFL or college.”
He also emphasized that, despite the switch from pro to college football, the fundamental aspects of the game remain unchanged. The key is still about creating advantages for your team, no matter the level.
“Each team has its own style of play,” he added. “Coaching against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens is different from coaching against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, but in the end, it’s still about competition. Coaching is coaching. During the game, you’re just trying to help your team as best you can.”
Belichick acknowledged that while winning is always gratifying, it’s never easy. “It’s hard to win. We saw that last week. You have to do a lot of things right and do them better than your opponent. Today we were fortunate to do that, and it’s good to be part of it. But I didn’t make any blocks, tackles, catches, or runs out there. The players did, and they’re the ones who deserve the credit.”
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