After nearly half a century of coaching NFL teams, not many would have imagined Bill Belichick plying his trade in the NCAA. However, as fate would have it, or perhaps it is a strategic move by Belichick, he has taken the reins of the UNC Tar Heels with a five-year contract. This move came as unexpectedly as his decision to part ways with Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in 2020. But Jon Gruden understands and supports Belichick’s decision.
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Gruden said that Belichick will not only spearhead an NCAA program in Chapel Hill, but will also have the chance to bring his son, Stephen, along. And in due time, Belichick can pass the coaching baton to his son.
“I’m not really shocked as many people are. I think he’s got a son, who is a very good young coach. The opportunity to maybe bring your son to Chapel Hill… there’s a lot of good stuff there… finish your coaching career (there) with your son (will be a good ending),” said the former Raiders HC on Bussin’ With The Boys,
The Tar Heels, whose basketball program is much more renowned, have struggled significantly in the ACC. However, like many, Gruden believes that Belichick can push the football program back to relevance in the coming years.
“Perhaps (he can) get the program back to where people say, ‘Wow, we gotta play North Carolina’,” Gruden added.
Gruden also has a theory about why Belichick decided to move to Carolina. He mentioned reading about the coach’s 24-year-old girlfriend, Jordon Hudson, and suggested that perhaps a change could be good for the couple.
“He has got a new girlfriend. I see that all over the internet… And I think Belichick might be looking for something different. How would you like to live in New England for 15 years? Pretty young girlfriend, have some fun, kick some ass,” said Jon.
Whatever Belichick has in mind, it will take time for the Tar Heels to establish their foothold in the NCAA. The head coach has always been no-nonsense, and the staff he’s assembling will reflect the same approach.
Belichick implemented the same strategy in New England, and even pro players weren’t fans of it. It remains to be seen how college athletes respond to his approach.
