North Carolina Football 2026 Preview: Can Bobby Petrino Fix Bill Belichick’s Offense?

North Carolina enters Year 2 under Bill Belichick hoping that a new-look offense can turn last season’s flashes into something more consistent. Bobby Petrino takes over as offensive coordinator with Billy Edwards Jr. at quarterback and Demon June expected to anchor a power-spread running game. The idea is straightforward: establish the run, create opportunities off play action and RPOs, and use Edwards’ mobility without asking him to carry the entire offense. After last season’s struggles, even getting this group into the high-20s consistently could dramatically change North Carolina’s outlook.

The defense quietly improved as last season went along and should give the Tar Heels a reasonable floor, but the schedule may obscure any progress early. TCU, Clemson and Notre Dame all arrive within the first five weeks, with Miami, Louisville and Pitt still waiting later in the year. North Carolina could start slowly and still turn into a legitimate bowl team if the offensive line holds up and Petrino finds a formula that works.

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