League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

UNC passed on coaching candidates now leading unbeaten SEC and Big Ten teams

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 29, 2026, 3:33 AM

Last updated Sep 29, 2026

UNC passed on coaching candidates now leading unbeaten SEC and Big Ten teams

Summary

North Carolina’s decision to hire Bill Belichick as head coach over younger coaching options Jon Sumrall and Bob Chesney is facing scrutiny. Sumrall is 4-0 at Florida, ranked No. 8, and Chesney has UCLA at 4-0, showing strong early performance in their new roles. Meanwhile, Belichick's initial promise at UNC has not yet materialized as expected, prompting reflection on the decision. The contrasting success of Sumrall and Chesney highlights the risks involved in choosing a high-profile name over proven coaching talent.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Jon Sumrall leads Florida with a 4-0 record and wins over Auburn and No. 4 Ole Miss.
•Bob Chesney has UCLA at 4-0, recently beating Maryland 54-3.
•Belichick’s UNC vision now appears less persuasive amid rising scrutiny.
•UNC opted for Belichick despite strong alternatives viewed as program builders.
•Both Sumrall and Chesney were in contention for the UNC job before the final decision.

Latest Updates

3:33 AMYahoo Sports — Two Head Coaches UNC Passed on for Bill Belichick Start Unbeaten SEC and Big Ten Seasons

What they're saying

"
When Bill Belichick arrived in Chapel Hill, UNC sold the vision of operating like the NFL’s “33rd team,” with general manager Michael Lombardi saying the program would be built around a pro-style model. Today, that vision looks far less convincing than it did at the start, especially given the expectations that came with Belichick’s arrival.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NCAAF College Sports