Bill Belichick Secures First Power Four Win Over Syracuse

UPDATE: Bill Belichick has achieved a significant milestone in his coaching career, securing his first victory against a Power Four school as North Carolina triumphed over Syracuse 27-10 on October 31, 2025, at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, New York. This victory marks Belichick’s first win against an ACC opponent, adding urgency and excitement to the Tar Heels’ season.

North Carolina’s win is crucial as they had struggled previously, failing to score more than 20 points against any FBS team this season. The Tar Heels showcased a strong offensive performance led by quarterback Gio Lopez, who completed 15 of 19 passes for 216 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Demon June contributed significantly, rushing for 101 yards and adding 81 yards through the air with a touchdown.

The game was particularly notable as Syracuse started walk-on true freshman quarterback Joe Filardi, who faced immense pressure from the North Carolina defense. Filardi struggled throughout the match, completing only 4 of 18 passes for 39 yards, highlighting the challenges the Orange have faced with quarterback injuries this season.

“Feels good. Feels great,”

Belichick expressed after the game. “We had a couple of opportunities the last couple of weeks that we couldn’t capitalize on. It was good to get this one. So we look forward to all the rest of the games in the ACC.”

The victory comes at a critical time for North Carolina, who previously secured wins against 1-7 Charlotte and Richmond, a team from the Patriot League. Belichick acknowledged the importance of timing in football, stating,

“We all know in football it’s not who you play, it’s when you play them.”

North Carolina is now poised to build on this momentum as they prepare to face Stanford, currently holding a record of 3-5, next Saturday. Meanwhile, Syracuse, now on a five-game losing streak, will seek to turn their fortunes around against Miami.

This game not only marks a turning point for Belichick and North Carolina but also raises questions about Syracuse’s future following a tumultuous season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as both teams move forward from this pivotal matchup.

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