# North Carolina upsets TCU in Dublin season opener > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/north-carolina-college-football-season-preparations > Updated: 2026-08-30T00:06:33.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2. North Carolina head coach Bill Belichick has secured a successful start to his second season, defeating TCU 15–10 in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland. The victory marks a significant turnaround from the previous year’s 48–14 loss to the Horned Frogs. Quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. threw for 232 yards, while tight end Jelani Thurman recorded 94 yards on four receptions. Jeremy Payne also contributed 142 rushing yards. The Tar Heels' defense was instrumental in the win, stifling TCU after an early 10–3 deficit. Defensive tackle Xavier Lewis was named the game's Most Valuable Player after recording seven tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks. Additionally, linebacker Derek McDonald earned ACC Linebacker of the Week honors following an 11-tackle performance. While the upset has raised expectations regarding bowl eligibility, analysts remain cautious due to a demanding upcoming schedule that includes matchups against Notre Dame, Miami, and Clemson. The Tar Heels are scheduled to return to the United States for their home opener against East Tennessee State on September 12. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-30: North Carolina football upsets TCU in Ireland season opener North Carolina football defeated TCU 15-10 in the Aer Lingus Classic in Ireland, marking a successful season opener for head coach Bill Belichick and standout defensive player Xavier Lewis. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/north-carolina-upsets-tcu-15-10-in-dublin-season-opener ### 2026-08-23: Bill Belichick prepares North Carolina for TCU rematch in Dublin Bill Belichick and the North Carolina Tar Heels prepare to face TCU in Dublin, Ireland, focusing on ball security and defensive discipline following a difficult debut season. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bill-belichick-explores-eligibility-rulings-for-north-carolina --- Cite as: North Carolina upsets TCU in Dublin season opener. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/north-carolina-college-football-season-preparations