UNC's next home football game officially sold out

The UNC football squad entered its 2026 season with one of the nation's toughest schedules, featuring several opponents with prior National Championships and College Football Playoff appearances.

Entering Saturday's ACC opener at Clemson, North Carolina (2-0) is exceeding early-season expectations. The Tar Heels shocked sports fans everywhere in Week Zero, upsetting TCU 15-10 in Ireland, then smacked ETSU by 32 points in their home opener.

After a Bye Week to close out September, UNC hosts Notre Dame, which is an early favorite to win the 2027 National Championship. On Friday, North Carolina announced that October 3 game in Kenan Stadium is now officially sold out.

The Tar Heels have just two wins all-time vs. the Fighting Irish (2-0), with both victories coming in Chapel Hill. UNC last beat Notre Dame in 2008, 29-24, nearly 50 years after a 5-point win in 1960.

The Fighting Irish look every bit of a contender early this year, easily taking care of Wisconsin (41-13) and Rice (52-0). CJ Carr (492 passing yards, six touchdowns) is earning himself early Heisman Trophy consideration, while Notre Dame's defense is extremely tough to crack.

Our October 3rd game in Kenan Stadium against Notre Dame is SOLD OUT! pic.twitter.com/dsjoluUb3M

— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) September 18, 2026

North Carolina's lockdown defense, led early by sophomore lineman Xavier Lewis (6.5 TFLs, four sacks), is a unit nobody wants to face. The Tar Heels employ a bend-but-don't-break strategy, particularly as opponents work their way into the red zone.

The Fighting Irish host Michigan State this weekend, then travel to Purdue on September 26. UNC and Notre Dame has Game of the Year potential…will it deliver?

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This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: UNC's next home football game officially sold out