News - Bobby Petrino joins Bill Belichick at North Carolina as the Offensive Coordinator.

Bobby Petrino, the former offensive coordinator for the Arkansas Razorbacks, has taken on a new challenge in his storied coaching career by accepting the offensive coordinator role at North Carolina under renowned coach Bill Belichick. This move reunites Petrino with the college football scene after a tumultuous yet impactful tenure with the Razorbacks. At 64, Petrino brings a wealth of experience from both college and NFL landscapes. He previously served as the head coach at institutions such as Western Kentucky, Louisville, and Missouri State, and was the offensive coordinator under Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M. Known for his offensive prowess, Petrino's Arkansas team ranked impressively in scoring and total offense, despite the team's overall record. His journey to North Carolina follows a stint as Arkansas' interim head coach, stepping in after the firing of Sam Pittman on September 28. In his brief interim period, Petrino couldn't change the team's trajectory, finishing the season without a win in his seven games at the helm. Petrino's recent career hasn't been without drama. His hiring at Arkansas required special permission from the University System due to his previous firing for cause in 2012. However, his return to the coaching fold was marked by a substantial contract, ensuring his financial stability through February 2027 with a $1.87 million payout from Arkansas, which will be adjusted based on his compensation at North Carolina. At North Carolina, Petrino is tasked with reinvigorating an offense that struggled mightily last season under former coordinator Freddie Kitchens. Under Kitchens, the Tar Heels fell to near the bottom of the FBS rankings in both scoring and total offense. Now with Belichick, Petrino aims to transform the team's offensive strategy, leveraging his extensive experience and tactical expertise. This collaboration with Belichick, himself transitioning into the college football realm, sets the stage for a potentially dynamic pairing. Belichick's illustrious NFL coaching career, highlighted by six Super Bowl championships, along with Petrino's offensive ingenuity, could provide a revitalizing spark for North Carolina's football program. Petrino also continues to develop a family legacy in coaching, with his son-in-law, Ryan Beard, recently securing a head coaching role at Coastal Carolina. Meanwhile, Petrino's son, Nick, has been active in coaching roles, evidenced by his recent stint as offensive coordinator and interim coach for Missouri State. As Petrino embarks on this new chapter with the Tar Heels, the college football community eagerly anticipates the outcomes of this high-profile coaching collaboration.