Mack Brown Says 'There's Absolutely No Reason' Bill Belichick Shouldn't Succeed at UNC

Former UNC head coach Mack Brown is confident that his successor Bill Belichick will help lead the program to new heights, particularly because of how much the university has invested in helping him succeed.

"They’ve committed money to it, they’ve helped him with academics. They’ve lowered those standards some," Brown said during an appearance on College Sports on SiriusXM, per On3.com. "So there’s absolutely no reason they shouldn’t be successful."

After his legendary career in the NFL, Belichick is making his first foray into college football with the Tar Heels. Brown noted that he's been impressed with the changes he's seen at UNC so far.

"And anymore, they’ve changed the roster. … So you’ve got a chance to succeed at the highest level, and I expect him to do that and I’m proud of him," Brown added.

Belichick has faced scrutiny in recent weeks amid reports of his 24-year-old girlfriend Jordon Hudson's involvement in his career. Beyond her presence at UNC offseason events, eyebrows were raised when she inserted herself into Belichick's interview on CBS Sunday Morning and directed him not to answer a question about how they met.

Belichick has defended Hudson in the aftermath and was seen in attendance supporting her as she placed third in the Miss Maine pageant. He also said earlier this month that she "doesn't have anything to do with UNC football."

Still, it's fair to wonder how Belichick will handle the transition to college football. He's taking over a UNC program that hasn't won a bowl game since 2019.

Belichick and the Tar Heels will open the 2025 season on Sept. 1 in a Monday night game against TCU, which will be broadcast on ESPN.