Belichick says he’s committed to UNC; Cunningham says Athletics supports coach

By R.L. Bynum

Amid various reports about the future of Bill Belichick as North Carolina’s football coach, the university released statements from him and Athletics Director Bubba Cunningham on Wednesday evening suggesting that he isn’t going anywhere.

“I’m fully committed to UNC Football and the program we’re building,” Belichick said in his statement.

The social media post also included a statement from Cunningham: “Coach Belichick as the full support of the Department of Athletics and the University.”

On Wednesday afternoon, reporter Ollie Connolly reported that Belichick and UNC were discussing buyout options. Also on Wednesday, Andrew Jones of Tar Heel 247 reported that UNC has had discussions about a possible exit strategy for Belichick.

On Monday, WRAL reported about a divided locker room and parents blaming Belichick culture for the team’s problems. On Wednesday, WRAL reported about a locker room fight between players.

Pete Nakos of On3 reported Wednesday evening that the program will likely make changes to the coaching staff, with offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens a possible target for firing.

Belichick signed a five-year deal in December worth $10 million per season.

The Tar Heels enter their game at Cal on Friday, Oct. 17, with a 2–3 overall record and an 0–1 ACC record. UNC has been outscored 120–33 in losses to TCU and UCF, its only power conference opponents.

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Month/ date	Score/ time	Opponent	Record/ TV
September
1	L, 48–14	vs. TCU	0–1
6	W, 20–3	at Charlotte	1–1
13	W, 41–6	vs. Richmond	2–1
20	L, 34–9	at UCF	2–2
October
4	L, 38–10	vs. Clemson	2–3, 0–1 ACC
17 (Fri.)	L, 21–18	at California	2–4, 0–2
25	L, 17–16, OT	vs. No. 16 Virginia	2–5, 0–3
31 (Fri.)	W, 27–10	at Syracuse	3–5, 1–3
November
8	W, 20–15	vs. Stanford	4–5, 2–3
15	L, 28–12	at Wake Forest	4–6, 2–4
22	L, 32–25	vs. Duke	4–7, 2–5
29	L, 42–19	at N.C. State	4–8, 2–6