The TCU Horned Frogs open the 2025 season on the road with a marquee matchup against North Carolina on Monday, Sept. 1, in Chapel Hill. Kickoff is set for 8:00 p.m. EST on ESPN, and all eyes will be on Kenan Stadium for one major reason: Bill Belichick‘s college coaching debut.
TCU looks to build off its 9-4 finish in 2024 heading into head coach Sonny Dykes‘ fourth season at the helm. The Horned Frogs are 3.5-point favorites with the over/under set at 56.5 total points. Here are two key players to watch in this game, followed by the top storylines for each team, and a prediction from Heartland College Sports.
Two Key Players to Watch
Josh Hoover (QB, TCU)
Josh Hoover, a proven veteran at the quarterback position, will have the chance to take advantage of a UNC defense that is still looking for its identity. He was one of the most consistent players in the country in 2024, throwing for 3,949 yards and 27 touchdowns. If he can stay clean and push tempo, TCU should be able to dictate pace and pressure a North Carolina team that’s replacing major pieces on defense. Hoover’s command of TCU’s offense gives the Horned Frogs a clear edge in continuity. With a deep stable of receivers and an experienced offensive line, Hoover is positioned to start 2025 with a statement performance.
Andrew Simpson (LB, North Carolina)
As a three-year contributor at Boise State, linebacker Andrew Simpson brings versatility and leadership to a retooled UNC defense. Last season, he posted 29 tackles, three sacks, three forced fumbles, and one interception, showcasing his ability to make impact plays across the field. Simpson’s experience and motor will be vital as the Tar Heels face a fast-paced TCU offense in Week 1. Look for him to be heavily involved in disrupting tempo and containing Hoover.
Two Key Storylines
Bill Belichick’s College Coaching Debut
One of the biggest storylines in college football’s Week 1 slate is Bill Belichick’s return to the sidelines, this time making his debut leading the Tar Heels. The Super Bowl-winning head coach brings an unmatched football pedigree, but transitioning to the college game presents unique challenges. All eyes will be on how quickly he can mold a rebuilt roster and navigate the tempo and unpredictability of TCU’s elite offense. With Gio Lopez expected to lead the way at quarterback, North Carolina faces a tough challenge right out of the gate.
TCU’s Veteran WR Corps Poised to Test UNC’s Rebuilt Secondary
The Horned Frogs return wideout Eric McAlister and added former Idaho standout Jordan Dwyer, who posted 78 catches for 1,192 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Dwyer’s physicality and big-play ability, highlighted by his 15.3 yards per catch, made him a nightmare for defenders in the open field. With a deep and balanced receiving corps, UNC’s secondary will have its hands full trying to keep up.
Prediction: TCU 35, North Carolina 24
With so much uncertainty surrounding the Tar Heels, TCU has a golden opportunity to make a statement in Week 1 and capitalize on a UNC team still trying to find its footing. With Hoover’s experience and the Horned Frogs’ depth at the skill positions, TCU should be able to control the pace. If the offense finds its rhythm, expect the Frogs to pull away in the second half and start the year 1-0.
