Bill Belichick reportedly wasn't UNC's first choice to become its next head football coach, enlisting the help of senators to get the job.

North Carolina actually preferred failed NFL head coach Arthur Smith, a Tar Heels alum, over Bill Belichick as its next head coach, according to ESPN. Once Smith, the Steelers’ offensive coordinator, opted to stay in the NFL, it cleared the path for Belichick to take the reins in Chapel Hill.

North Carolina's hiring of Bill Belichick was the stunner of the college football year. Here's how the Tar Heels pulled it off.