Controversy has trailed Bill Belichick as he ventures from the NFL into college football. Will his coaching prowess translate into victories in the new setting?

Bill Belichick, the legendary coach of the New England Patriots, is back on the sidelines for the first time since 2024, leading the University of North Carolina (UNC) against Texas Christian University (TCU) on Monday.

Belichick's arrival at UNC was unexpected, as the school has only eight double-digit-win seasons in its 121-year history, compared to Belichick's eight Super Bowl rings with the Patriots. The move was met with some controversy, dividing the school's leadership, according to ESPN.

The hiring of Belichick saw a shake-up in the UNC football team's management. Michael Lombardi, the general manager who worked with Belichick to reconstruct the Patriots' roster, was brought in to advise the UNC team. Belichick's son, Steve, was also hired as the school's defensive coordinator, with Hudson suggesting to university officials how to shape public relations around the hiring.

Belichick's first season in college was uncertain due to the disarray that surrounded him since taking the job in Chapel Hill. Questions arose around his relationship with his 24-year-old girlfriend Jordon Hudson during the publicity campaign for his memoir. Hudson cut in during a CBS morning show taping when asked about their relationship, saying "We're not talking about this." Belichick later released a statement defending his girlfriend.

In May, Belichick supported Hudson's bid to become Miss Maine USA. The coach went on a media blitz in 2024, poking fun at himself, appearing on ESPN broadcasts, analyzing plays on a CW show, hosting or co-hosting multiple podcasts, and writing a memoir titled "The Art of Winning."

The UNC football team is projected to generate revenue of $19 million this season, up from $12 million last season. The team hosted more than 4,000 prospects during the offseason, with building a roster being the biggest change for Belichick in college football.

Belichick implored his players to focus on football under the credo "Do your job." Tom Brady, a former Patriots quarterback, said Belichick would teach the right fundamentals and techniques, but there might be a learning curve due to dealing with underdeveloped players.

A company applied for more than a dozen Belichick-related trademarks, with Hudson listed as the manager. Sleeveless Tar Heels hoodies are being sold for $84.99 in the school bookstore.

A Hulu docuseries will follow the Tar Heels in 2025, documenting Belichick's first season in college football. Belichick told The Boston Globe that college football has less bureaucracy compared to the NFL, a welcome change for the coach.

As Belichick's teams with the Patriots established baseline expectations of throttling divisional opponents and projecting an air of exacting competency, fans and analysts eagerly await to see if he can bring the same success to UNC. The coach's return to the gridiron promises an exciting season for college football.