This one game will determine UNC's 2026 football success

Year One of the Bill Belichick era at UNC ended with a 4-8 record and another loss to NC State. That’s why 2026 is a prove it year for Belichick who, despite his extensive NFL success, may be out with another underwhelming season.

Before 2025 began, North Carolina had a fairly “easy” schedule on paper. The Tar Heels‘ 2026 campaign is loaded with tough opponents, including Clemson, Notre Dame, Louisville and Miami (FL), but they can shock the college football world with a few upsets.

UNC begins its ACC slate at Clemson on September 19, looking to snap a 7-game losing streak in that series. This game, though, will be the top indicator of how well North Carolina plays throughout its upcoming season.

Despite earning bowl eligibility for their 21st consecutive season, the Tigers are fresh off a mediocre campaign of their own. Clemson finished just 7-6 overall and unranked for the first time since 2010, losing to Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl. The Tigers smacked the Tar Heels in Kenan Stadium, 38-10, but lost two out of their next three games.

Clemson wants to prove last season was a fluke, but there isn’t a ton of hype around its 2026 roster. The Tigers don’t have a clear plan at quarterback, but Christopher Vizzina will start the year.

UNC upgraded its roster through a combination of key returners, transfer portal additions and incoming high school recruits.

Jordan Shipp retains his WR1 spot, positioning himself amongst the ACC’s best. Melkart Abou-Jaoude returns after his breakout 2025, leading North Carolina with 12 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks.

Wisconsin transfer Billy Edwards gives the Tar Heels an experienced option at quarterback, while Texas A&M transfer Miles O’Neill and highly-touted 4-star Travis Burgess will also compete for the starting gig. Syracuse transfer Derek McDonald is poised to lead the UNC linebacking corps, while Demon June looks to build upon his big freshman campaign.

If the Tar Heels can somehow steal an upset in Death Valley, or even play Clemson close, they could shock some people this fall. Circle this Sept. 19 matchup on your calendar now.

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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: This one game will determine UNC’s 2026 football success