As the college football season of 2025 nears, one prominent decision has emerged from North Carolina’s camp: Gio Lopez has been named the starting quarterback by Coach Bill Belichick. This announcement comes shortly before their matchup against TCU.

Previously, Lopez faced competition from veteran quarterback Max Johnson for the starting spot. Lopez was acquired through the transfer portal and had a commendable previous season with South Alabama, completing 66% of his passes and showcasing his versatility as both a passer and a runner. Given the pressure of the upcoming season opener, Belichick’s choice indicates confidence in Lopez’s abilities to lead the team.

The landscape of college football is busy with teams defining their quarterback positions, and programs like Ohio State, Alabama, and Tennessee have already solidified their starting players. The 2025 season promises intense competition as players vie for dominance on the field.