**Bill Belichick Hires Bobby Petrino as UNC Offensive Coordinator for 2026**
Key Takeaways:
- Bobby Petrino named new offensive coordinator at the University of North Carolina.
- Bill Belichick made the decision after a poor 2025 season, replacing Freddie Kitchens.
- Petrino aims to revamp one of college football’s lowest-ranked offenses.
Chapel Hill, NC — Former Arkansas interim head coach Bobby Petrino has been hired as the new offensive coordinator at the University of North Carolina by Bill Belichick, according to multiple reports published within the last 48 hours. The move comes as Belichick attempts to overhaul an anemic offense that finished near the bottom nationally in most statistical categories during the 2025 season.
Belichick Makes First Major Staff Change at UNC
Bill Belichick, the legendary NFL coach who took over the Tar Heels program in 2025, dismissed offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens following a 4-8 campaign. Kitchens was previously a holdover from Mack Brown’s staff. The Tar Heels’ offense struggled significantly, averaging just 19.3 points per game and ranking 120th in yards per play.
Belichick is turning to Petrino, a veteran play-caller known for reviving underperforming offenses. Petrino spent the last two seasons at Arkansas, where he helped the Razorbacks climb from 116th to 11th nationally in yards per play, largely thanks to his integration of Boise State transfer quarterback Taylen Green. The challenge at UNC will be similar — taking one of college football’s least effective units and making it competitive in the ACC.
Petrino’s Tumultuous Yet Effective Coaching Journey
Petrino’s career has been both controversial and impactful. Best known for his offensive expertise, Petrino helped guide Lamar Jackson’s Heisman-winning season in 2016 at Louisville. However, his trajectory was interrupted by off-field incidents, including his firing from Arkansas in 2012 after a motorcycle accident exposed an inappropriate relationship with a staffer. Despite these setbacks, he bounced back with roles at Western Kentucky, Missouri State, UNLV, and Texas A&M, before returning to Arkansas in 2024.
After serving as interim head coach for the Razorbacks at the end of the 2025 season, Petrino went winless at 0-7 but was still credited for offensive development. His ability to elevate scoring units is evidently what caught Belichick’s attention heading into 2026.
Reviving the Tar Heels Offense in 2026
With Petrino on board, North Carolina will seek to climb out of the offensive cellar. The hire signals Belichick’s commitment to rapid turnaround. Improvement will be vital not only for postseason hopes but also for recruiting and program credibility under one of the most decorated coaches in football history. Petrino is expected to begin play-calling duties immediately and will have spring practices to install his system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is bobby petrino trending?
A: He was just hired as the new offensive coordinator for North Carolina by Bill Belichick.
Q: What happens next?
A: Petrino will begin implementing his offense ahead of the 2026 season, starting with spring practice preparations.
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