By Mark Pszonak
The entire football world was talking about Bill Belichick becoming North Carolina’s new head coach yesterday. That topic of conversation was everywhere, including at rival NC State, where sophomore quarterback C.J. Bailey was asked about the possibility of playing against Belichick next season.
While the hiring had yet to become official at the time of the interview, Bailey was excited to discuss the possibility:
"We going to kill him."
— NC State sophomore quarterback Cedrick "C.J." Bailey on playing UNC if they hire coach Bill Belichick pic.twitter.com/axUIvEAsyN
— Jacey Zembal (@NCStateRivals) December 11, 2024
“We going to kill him.”
The chances are very high that this quote will be plastered all over the Tar Heels locker room next season during the week leading up to their game at NC State. You can be sure that Bailey will be reminded about his comments that week as you can be sure that North Carolina players will be asked to share their opinions.
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Rivalries are part of what makes college football great. And every opposing player and coach will be primed to play against the Tar Heels for as long as Coach Belichick is in Chapel Hill. Part of why North Carolina made this hire was to become more relevant on the college football landscape. They definitely accomplished this, but with that will come more comments like Bailey’s.
It is also important to note that Bailey showed respect towards Coach Belichick during his interview.
“It means a lot that I can play against Bill Belichik.”
And that is also a sentiment that will be shared by most, if not all, the opponents North Carolina plays. It will be an interesting ride for the Tar Heels with Coach Belichick in charge, with plenty of noise coming from all directions. But noise can also be fun and entertaining, which Bailey’s comments were.
Everyone in Chapel Hill better be ready for a wild ride.
