Why UNC's Growth This Season Matters More Than the Wins

Even through ups and downs, the Tar Heels are playing for a bigger picture that extends beyond this year’s record.

Oct 25, 2025; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels running back Benjamin Hall (28) with quarterback Gio Lopez (7) on the field in the third quarter at Kenan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

The scoreboard has not always reflected the progress happening inside North Carolina’s locker room. After a turbulent start and a series of close losses, the Tar Heels are still searching for rhythm and results. But behind the scenes, there is a growing sense that this season is about something larger than short-term success.

For a program that has weathered staff transitions, injuries, and constant outside noise, improvement is not only measured in wins. It is measured in how players respond, how they adapt, and how they prepare to build the foundation for what comes next.

A Team That Refuses to Fold

North Carolina’s season has been filled with challenges, but the team’s effort has not wavered. Veterans like Christo Kelly and Andrew Simpson have emphasized unity and focus, even when results have been hard to come by.

Sep 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels linebacker Andrew Simpson (2) celebtates his sack along with linebacker Tyler Thompson (40) during the second half against the Charlotte 49ers at Jerry Richardson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

• “For me, all we can do is bring the guys together and focus on the task at hand,” Simpson said earlier this month. “We’re trying to be better, trying to grow, and continue to get wins. We have a long season ahead of us, and more games to be played than we’ve played already.”

That mindset reflects the larger message from the coaching staff - progress now will pay off later. For a young roster led by players still adjusting to new systems, the key has been consistency and communication.

Belichick’s Long-Term View

Head coach Bill Belichick has been clear that development remains the top priority. He has repeatedly praised the group’s effort and improvement during practice, noting that while results have been uneven, growth is visible on a daily basis.

“Our guys work hard,” Belichick said. “They have a great attitude and great energy. We’ve shown a lot of improvement, and I think that’s exciting for all of us to see.”

Oct 17, 2025; Berkeley, California, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels head coach Bill Belichick reacts against the California Golden Bears in the first quarter at California Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images | Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

That steady progress is what the staff believes will translate into long-term stability. Building a new culture under Belichick’s leadership means putting in the work now - learning from mistakes, refining fundamentals, and establishing the standard that will define the program’s identity going forward.

Several of UNC’s younger players, including Gio Lopez, Jordan Shipp, and Kobe Paysour, have taken advantage of expanded roles this season. While their performances have varied, the experience they are gaining is invaluable. Each rep, each adjustment, and each late-game possession serves as a step toward the kind of consistency Belichick envisions.

This year has also been a lesson in resilience. The Tar Heels have faced adversity, but their locker room remains committed to the process rather than the noise around it. Players and coaches continue to emphasize internal accountability and gradual improvement as the core of the rebuild.

Sep 21, 2024; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels wide receiver Kobe Paysour (8) with the ball in the first quarter at Kenan Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Playing for What Comes Next

For the Tar Heels, every game left on the schedule carries significance, even if postseason expectations have shifted. The team’s leaders see these weeks as a proving ground for the years ahead- a chance to show that belief, work ethic, and player development matter more than short-lived results.

Progress takes time, and in Chapel Hill, that time is being invested wisely. The foundation being built this season could be what brings North Carolina back to national relevance in the seasons to come.

Please follow us on X when you click right here!

Please make sure you follow us today on our Facebook page when you click right here!