Breaking: North Carolina Tar Heels Bill Belichick Announces Another starting quarterback

The Bill Belichick era at North Carolina will officially begin on Labor Day, as the Tar Heels take on TCU in a nationally televised primetime matchup. When they do, South Alabama transfer Gio Lopez will be under center as the starting quarterback.

Belichick confirmed the decision during a press conference on Wednesday, just days before the season opener. While the announcement was expected—Lopez has consistently led the first-team offense throughout the offseason and training camp—the staff held off until game week to make it official.

Max Johnson has been named the backup quarterback, with freshmen Bryce Baker and Au’Tori Newkirk listed behind him on the depth chart.

UNC coach Bill Belichick announces that South Alabama transfer Gio Lopez will be the starting quarterback for the Tar Heels. Lopez came to UNC after spring ball. He's a dual threat who threw for 18 touchdowns and ran for 7 last year.

— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) August 27, 2025

Lopez, a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, joined UNC after spring practices. Last season, he threw for 18 touchdowns and added 7 more on the ground, showcasing his ability to impact the game both through the air and with his legs.