New England Patriots - NESN.com
Bill Belichick and the University of North Carolina posted a joint statement on Wednesday night amid reports questioning the head coach’s future with the college football program.
The legendary New England Patriots head coach has endured a bumpy transition in his new job, leading the Tar Heels to a 2-3 start with three blowout losses against Power Four opponents. Speculation of an early split spread after last Saturday’s 38-10 loss to Clemson.
The school addressed the rumors with brief statements from Belichick and UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham.
“I’m fully committed to UNC Football and the program we’re building here,” Belichick said.
“Coach Belichick has the full support of the Department of Athletics and University,” Cunningham said.
Guardian’s Ollie Connolly reported Wednesday that Belichick discussed a possible buyout with UNC brass. Staffers anticipating a change this month have allegedly started speaking to other College Football Playoff contenders in hopes of securing a new role.
The school is also investigating “serious recruiting violations,” which could cause Belichick to accept a “greatly reduced” buyout rate.
The Tar Heels have gotten outscored by 87 combined points in three losses, and unflattering stories continue to surface off the field.
Earlier this week, North Carolina cancelled an in-progress Hulu documentary following the team’s poor start. The Tar Heels didn’t celebrate alum Drake Maye’s performance in New England’s Week 5 win over the Buffalo Bills until after reports claimed that Belichick forbade UNC from posting about a Patriots player. Belichick has also barred Patriots scouts from attending his practices.
Belichick will try to quiet the drama by leading UNC to a road win over California next Friday night.
