UNC football ends its season with a blowout loss to N.C. State, 42-19, in a performance that feels like a microcosm of the whole season. 97.9 The Hill’s Brighton McConnell and Michael Koh debrief what went wrong against the Wolfpack, as well as the first season under Bill Belichick. They discuss the offensive woes and the defense’s regression against stopping the run, as well as look ahead to what the 2026 schedule holds for Carolina. Inside Carolina’s Tommy Ashley joins to provide prospective (and hindsight) on why expectations were high in Belichick’s first year vs. the reality of the season, as well as his sense of whether UNC’s investment into the football program will ultimately pay off. Plus: Michael and Brighton talk about what players and positions to prioritize keeping or refreshing this offseason and callers share their despair and optimism following the season in the closing “What In Tar-Nation?!”
The Carolina Football Hour is your home for football insights from the Tar Heel Sports flagship station! Reactions, analysis, special guests — plus, a space for post-game callers, fans and listeners can share their observations and contribute their own voice to the broadcast. Tune in Monday evenings at 6:00 p.m. on 97.9 The Hill WCHL and listen on-demand afterward on your favorite audio apps, like Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
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