The first game of the Bill Belichick era included a redeemable moment amid North Carolina’s lopsided 48-14 defeat to TCU.
Although the Tar Heels only managed two touchdowns in Chapel Hill, there was a slightly brighter note during their second scoring effort.
Quarterback Max Johnson stepped in after starting QB Geo Lopez was injured in the third quarter.
Johnson guided North Carolina down the field with an impressive 80-yard, ten-play drive, capped off by a two-yard completion to his younger brother, Jake.
Both are sons of Super Bowl-winning quarterback Brad Johnson.
Typically, this performance might have been overlooked due to the heavy loss, but there was extra significance for Max Johnson. He had suffered a severe leg injury during last season’s opener, which made his return this season particularly meaningful.
That injury was no small matter; it left him contemplating the possibility of losing his leg and required five surgeries.
In a discussion with a reporter last month, Johnson reflected on his journey back to the field, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.
“I was really excited to get outside [at practice on Aug. 2],” Johnson shared. “I couldn’t stop smiling. There was no mental barrier—just lots of physical work. I focused on scar tissue massage, using stem machines, and running on the water treadmill.”
“It wasn’t as if I was thinking I could never do this again, but it definitely took some time to walk again. I remember that first step; I was so elated.”
Lopez, who transferred from South Alabama, started the game on Monday. He completed all 11 of his passes for 103 yards but did throw an interception.
He also fumbled the ball during a critical moment, which led to a touchdown for TCU. There was a lengthy delay before play resumed, adding to the intensity of the situation.
Belichick praised Johnson’s performance afterwards but refrained from confirming who would be the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against Charlotte.
