Former UNC QB says Bill Belichick’s program felt ‘more like a job’ than playing football

Gio Lopez Critiques Bill Belichick’s Program

Former North Carolina State quarterback, Gio Lopez, recently shared critical insights about Bill Belichick’s coaching approach following his transfer from the Tar Heels to Wake Forest.

Before moving to Wake Forest, Lopez had transferred from South Alabama to North Carolina State for the 2025 season, where he played in 11 games, amassing 1,747 passing yards and throwing 10 touchdowns. Unfortunately, North Carolina finished with a disappointing 4-8 record in Belichick’s inaugural season as head coach.

In a recent interview with ESPN, Lopez expressed his dissatisfaction with his time at North Carolina, stating, “When I was at other schools, it felt like there was no atmosphere. It’s fun here again. They’re moving us in the right direction, giving us energy and the players are enjoying their football. It’s like a breath of fresh air.” He emphasized that it was a significant challenge to face such difficult circumstances on a large scale.

Belichick, who previously enjoyed a distinguished 24-season tenure with the NFL’s New England Patriots—leading them to six Super Bowl victories—transitioned to coaching the Tar Heels, aiming to bring his NFL expertise to college football.

Lopez mentioned, “I felt closer to work” while at North Carolina, adding that initially, after his first game, he felt overwhelmed, as if he was merely trying to get through the day without stressing about the next one.

Gio’s father, Bernie Lopez, also weighed in on the program, citing it wasn’t managed in a way he viewed as beneficial for the players. He said, “I don’t know the situation on the ground because I’m not a Super Bowl champion, but I don’t think it was handled in the best way for college football, for the students and the players.” He expressed concern about how it affected his son.

Currently, Lopez is a player for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, sharing the depth chart with redshirt freshman Steele Pizzella. The team, coached by Jake Dickert, achieved a 9-4 record and won the Duke Mayo Bowl in 2025. The Demon Deacons will kick off their season against the Akron Zips on September 3rd.

In defense of Belichick, North Carolina general manager Mike Lombardi spoke out earlier this year, highlighting the unity among players during challenging times, despite facing criticism and misinformation.