Charlotte, NC, September 7, 2025
News Summary
The North Carolina Tar Heels secured a significant victory against the Charlotte 49ers, winning 20-3. This match was marked by Bill Belichick’s first win as a college football coach. The Tar Heels showed improvement from their previous game, with quarterback Gio Lopez completing impressive passes and strong defensive play limiting Charlotte’s offense. The win reflects North Carolina’s effort to revitalize their football program after a challenging start to the season.
Charlotte
The North Carolina Tar Heels triumphed over the Charlotte 49ers with a score of 20-3 on September 6, 2025, securing Bill Belichick’s first victory as a college football coach. This game, held at Jerry Richardson Stadium, drew a record crowd and provided a pivotal moment for a program rebuilding after a tough 2025 season opener.
After suffering a significant 48-14 loss to TCU in their season opener, the Tar Heels came into this game with fresh determination. Quarterback Gio Lopez showcased his improvement by completing 17 of 25 passes for 155 yards, including one touchdown strike to Chris Culliver on the team’s opening drive, which covered an impressive 51 yards.
The Tar Heels’ offensive performance was marked by a total of 303 yards, with contributions from various players. In addition to Lopez’s passing touchdown, Davion Gause added a late first-half touchdown with a 12-yard rushing effort, while Rece Verhoff kicked a pair of field goals—first from 49 yards and then from 33 yards in the fourth quarter. Altogether, nine different players caught passes during the game, though none recorded more than three receptions.
Defensively, North Carolina stood tall, allowing no plays longer than 25 yards throughout the game, which helped to stifle the Charlotte offense. The only scoring for the 49ers came courtesy of Liam Boyd, who successfully booted a 39-yard field goal in the second quarter.
This victory represents a critical step in revitalizing North Carolina’s football program under Bill Belichick, marked by a major offseason overhaul that included 41 transfers and 30 high school signees aiming to strengthen the roster. Following the game, Belichick was honored in the locker room by Chancellor Lee Roberts, who presented him with a game ball in recognition of this important achievement.
As the Tar Heels look ahead, their next matchup will be against Richmond before continuing to face UCF on September 20, 2025. The schedule signifies a countdown to their first Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) game of the season against Clemson on October 4, 2025.
Game Summary
- Final Score: North Carolina 20, Charlotte 3
- Passing Leader: Gio Lopez – 17/25, 155 yards, 1 touchdown
- Rushing Leader: Davion Gause – 12-yard touchdown
- Player Top Catch: Chris Culliver – 51-yard touchdown reception
- Field Goal Leaders: Rece Verhoff (49 yards, 33 yards), Liam Boyd (39 yards)
- Turnovers: None for North Carolina
- Defensive Performance: No plays longer than 25 yards allowed
Background Information
Bill Belichick, renowned for his previous success as a head coach in the NFL, is embarking on a new chapter in college football. This win not only marks his initial victory at the collegiate level but also provides hope for fans and supporters of the Tar Heels following a rough patch in the program’s history. Under Belichick’s stewardship, expectations are high for a brighter future as he rebuilds the team with a blend of new talent and strategic gameplay.
Upcoming Schedule
- September 13, 2025: vs. Richmond
- September 20, 2025: at UCF
- October 4, 2025: ACC opener vs. Clemson
FAQ
- When did Bill Belichick secure his first college win?
- Bill Belichick secured his first college coaching win on September 6, 2025.
- What was the final score of the game?
- The final score was North Carolina 20, Charlotte 3.
- How did Gio Lopez perform during the game?
- Gio Lopez completed 17 of 25 passes for 155 yards and one touchdown.
- What contributions did Rece Verhoff make?
- Rece Verhoff kicked two field goals of 49 yards and 33 yards.
- How did North Carolina’s defense perform?
- The defense did not allow any plays longer than 25 yards and forced no turnovers.
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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