The Bill Belichick Era at Chapel Hill has gotten off to a frantic start. The North Carolina Tar Heels have been revolutionized, with constant breaking news of changes coming into the program. Ahead of the 2025 campaign, Belichick and UNC could be without their starting quarterback, who is planning to test the open market through the transfer portal.
That may be the case for the Tar Heels during the 2025 NCAA season as starting QB Jacolby Criswell announced he’s planning to enter the transfer portal, per reports. This news has sent shockwaves through the fanbase and raised questions about the team’s direction under their new head coach.
Criswell walked into Chapel Hill in 2020. He spent the first three years of his college football career with the Tar Heels before a one-and-done stint in Arkansas. He ultimately returned to North Carolina last year and registered 2,459 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions in 12 games. He also contributed with three rushing touchdowns. With such impressive stats, losing him would be a significant blow to the Tar Heels’ offense.
Due to medical redshirts, the senior quarterback has one year of eligibility remaining, and he intends to spend it somewhere else, apparently. This decision is particularly crucial as Belichick looks to establish his system and build a competitive team in the ACC.
Being coached by football’s greatest, Belichick, is not for everyone. If a player is not fully convinced, then he’s better off somewhere else. Historically, Belichick has made it clear he’s not tied to any player, and nobody’s spot is locked up. This philosophy has been a hallmark of his coaching style, and it’s evident that he expects complete commitment from his players.
Needless to say, this mantra doesn’t apply with the same strength on some positions. The quarterback position is perhaps the one in which Belichick has to loosen up the most. If the team doesn’t have a bona fide QB1, then everybody is affected. The uncertainty surrounding the starting quarterback role could lead to challenges as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
What’s Next for the Tar Heels?
As the Tar Heels face this potential setback, attention turns to the incoming talent. Four-star quarterback recruit Bryce Baker is coming into the program as a freshman ahead of the 2025 season. Baker may be given the nod under center earlier than expected, following Criswell’s decision.
A six-foot-three talent from Kernersville, North Carolina, Baker signed with his homestate school after Belichick’s appointment as the Tar Heels head coach. His arrival could not be more timely, as he may be relied upon to guide UNC through a challenging year in the ACC. This is a significant opportunity for Baker to step up and showcase his skills on a big stage.
The Tar Heels are in a pivotal moment of transition. With Belichick at the helm, the program is looking to redefine itself and compete at a higher level. The pressure is on for both the coaching staff and the players, especially with the looming uncertainty at the quarterback position.
As the team navigates this change, the focus will be on building chemistry and establishing a solid game plan. The coaching staff will need to assess the roster and determine the best path forward, especially if Baker is thrust into a starting role sooner than anticipated.
Belichick’s Vision for the Future
Belichick’s reputation as a master strategist precedes him. His experience in the NFL has equipped him with a unique perspective on how to build a winning culture. The question remains: can he translate that success to college football?
The Tar Heels have a rich history and a passionate fanbase that expects results. With Belichick’s leadership, there’s hope for a brighter future. However, the immediate challenge of replacing Criswell will test the team’s resilience and adaptability.
Fans are eager to see how the coaching staff will respond to this situation. Will they look to the transfer portal for an experienced quarterback, or will they trust in the young talent of Baker? The decisions made in the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the team’s trajectory.
In the world of college football, change is the only constant. As the Tar Heels prepare for the 2025 season, they must embrace the uncertainty and rally together as a team. With Belichick at the helm, there’s a sense of excitement and anticipation surrounding the program.
The Tar Heels have a unique opportunity to redefine their identity and make a statement in the ACC. Whether it’s through the emergence of a new star quarterback or the continued development of existing talent, the future is bright for North Carolina football.
As the season approaches, fans will be watching closely. Will the Tar Heels rise to the occasion, or will they falter under the pressure of change? One thing is for sure: college football is about to get even more thrilling in Chapel Hill.
