The North Carolina coach Bill Belichick spent more than two decades building one of the greatest coaching resumes in NFL history. But his reputation did not protect him from a harsh assessment ahead of the 2026 college football season.

According to a report by Andy Staples of On3, Belichick was ranked No. 16 among the ACC's 17 head coaches entering the season. Staples acknowledged Belichick's NFL accomplishments, but then he pointed out that his ranking placed him near the bottom of the conference after a disappointing debut year in Chapel Hill.

"If this were a list of NFL coaches, Belichick would be No. 1," Staples wrote. "But he went 4-8 in his only college season despite having more advantages than other similarly situated coaches."

He pointed out that the roster depth was one of the biggest problems. Staples suggested that Belichick and general manager Michael Lombardi evaluate and acquire talent in the modern college game, as per the On3 report.

The ranking sparked questions due to Belichick's success with the Patriots. During his 24 seasons with the New England Patriots, he won six Super Bowls, captured nine AFC championships, and posted a 302-165 regular-season record. 

"Belichick and general manager Michael Lombardi need to demonstrate that they know what they're looking for when they recruit," Staples added.

The ranking reflects how the tables have turned. When North Carolina hired the six-time Super Bowl-winning coach, many expected the Tar Heels to become an immediate ACC contender.

Instead, North Carolina stumbled to a 4-8 record. The 2025 season began with a loss to TCU and ended with a 42-19 defeat against NC State.

After entering last season at No. 18, his ranking dropped to No. 56 in Athlon Sports' rankings.

For now, the ACC ranking focuses on Belichick's first year; another analyst suggests that the Tar Heels still have a path to improve. 

Bill’s ranking points to potential rebound for North Carolina

Athlon Sports analyst Steve Lassan ranked North Carolina No. 56 among all 138 teams for 2026. 

The ranking was not surprising, but Lassan believes changes on offense could help the Tar Heels take a step forward.

"New play-caller Bobby Petrino should spark an offense that averaged only 18.4 points in ACC play," Lassan wrote.

One of the biggest additions is transfer quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. The former Maryland and Wisconsin signal-caller is expected to take over the starting job.

Edwards completed 65 percent of his passes at Maryland in 2024 while throwing 15 touchdowns. North Carolina hopes his experience can stabilize an offense that struggled throughout last season.

Lassan also noted that the defense showed promise despite the team's record. 

“If coach Bill Belichick can keep the defense performing at a high level (24.5 points a game allowed in ‘25), an improved offense will help the Tar Heels push for a bowl trip,” added Lassan.

Belichick and North Carolina enter the 2026 season with plenty to prove. The Tar Heels believe offseason changes can help them compete for the playoffs.

What do you think about Bill Belichick's ranking? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Rudra Dubey