Ahead of his first season at the helm of the Tar Heels, Belichick has been involved in recent rumors after his girlfriend, Jordon Hudson, and her presence on campus generated much buzz around college football.

However, Belichick has made it clear: “It’s a personal relationship. She doesn’t have anything to do with anything at UNC football,” Belichick said about Hudson, per NBC Sports. Still, the noise surrounding the Tar Heels won’t be canceled out that easily.

Football-wise, though, the Tar Heels are fully focused on gearing up for the upcoming 2025 NCAA season, hoping to become a powerhouse in the ACC and in the entire country—why not?

On that note, the Tar Heels learned exciting news as a former star on Jeanty’s Boise State is moving into campus in Chapel Hill and could turn it up a notch for Belichick’s defense in the 2025 college football campaign.

Boise State transfer linebacker Andrew Simpson has committed to play for North Carolina out of the NCAA transfer portal, On3’s Hayes Fawcett reported.

Simpson’s stats in 2024

Simpson arrives in Chapel Hill with one year of eligibility remaining in college football after playing three seasons and 40 games in Boise, Idaho. During the 2024 campaign, Simpson registered 46 tackles, 11.0 tackles for a loss, 3 forced fumbles, 3.0 sacks, and an interception.

Needless to say, Belichick has found a gem in the transfer portal who brings an unmatched combination of skill, experience, and leadership. Belichick has been characterized for his defense-first gameplan, and Simpson’s addition to the lineup might just be the final piece to the puzzle for the Tar Heels.

Debut

The North Carolina Tar Heels will kickstart their 2025 NCAA season, and Bill Belichick’s era, with a pivotal showdown against the TCU Horned Frogs at Kenan Stadium on September 1 at 8p.m. ET.

Boise State has a knack for producing electric talent, and Ashton Jeanty is the latest proof. With a low center of gravity and a relentless engine, he’s become a nightmare for defenses and a gem for the Broncos’ offense.

From jaw-dropping jukes to game-changing touchdowns, his 2023 season turned heads far beyond the Mountain West. His playmaking instincts and work ethic have earned him more than just stats—they’ve sparked real buzz.

Though his resume is growing fast, his story is still unfolding. Behind every highlight reel lies a path of discipline, resilience and something even harder to define: that spark only stars carry.

How old is Ashton Jeanty?

Born on December 2, 2003, in Jacksonville, Florida, Ashton Jeanty is 21 years old as of April 2025. His early years were marked by unique experiences, including playing football at Naples Middle/High School in Italy, where he initially took on the quarterback role before transitioning to running back.

This international upbringing, influenced by his father’s service in the U.S. Navy, provided Jeanty with a diverse perspective and resilience that would later define his football career.

How tall is Ashton Jeanty?

At 5 feet 8.5 inches tall, Ashton Jeanty may not fit the traditional mold of an NFL running back, but his stature hasn’t hindered his performance. His low center of gravity and agility make him a formidable presence on the field, allowing him to navigate through defenses with ease.

What is Ashton Jeanty’s weight?

Weighing in at 211 pounds, Ashton Jeanty combines his compact frame with significant power, making him a challenging opponent for defenders. His strength and endurance have been key factors in his ability to sustain high performance throughout games and seasons.

Who is Ashton Jeanty’s coach?

Ashton Jeanty’s head coach is Spencer Danielson, who has played a pivotal role in shaping him into one of the most dynamic running backs in college football. Under his leadership, he has flourished as an athlete and leader.

He took over as head coach at Boise State in 2023, following a successful interim run, and quickly established a culture of discipline, consistency, and player development.

In addition to Danielson’s guidance, he has benefited greatly from his close work with James Montgomery, Boise State’s running backs coach. James’s technical expertise has helped him sharpen critical skills like pass protection and vision.

The synergy between him and his coaches is evident in every game. Together, they’ve built not only a standout college player but a complete athlete with the mental and physical tools to succeed at the next level.

Ashton Jeanty’s career highlights

• Doak Walker Award Winner (2024): Jeanty took home this prestigious honor, awarded to the nation’s best running back, after a breakout season that saw him lead all of college football in rushing yards and touchdowns. It cemented his reputation as an elite offensive weapon.

• Unanimous All-American Selection (2024): His dominant 2024 campaign earned him a unanimous spot on the All-American team, making him one of the most decorated players in the country and a clear favorite for NFL scouts.

• 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns in a single season (2024): Jeanty led the entire FBS in both rushing yards and rushing touchdowns, showing he could carry an offense on his back. He averaged over 200 total yards per game, a rare feat at any level.

• Over 4,000 total yards in three college seasons: A model of consistency, Jeanty surpassed 4,000 total scrimmage yards before even completing his junior year. His versatility as both a runner and a receiver made him a constant threat every time he touched the ball.

• Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year (2024): Recognized as the top offensive performer in his conference, Jeanty was a weekly headline-maker and a nightmare for opposing defenses across the Mountain West.

• MVP of the 2023 LA Bowl vs. UCLA: In a defining moment, Jeanty exploded for over 200 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns, leading Boise State to a statement win over a Pac-12 powerhouse. His performance drew national attention and raised his NFL draft stock.

According to the information, the talented running back will only undergo the necessary medical exams and will also attend the respective interviews. However, the player won’t participate in NFL Scouting Combine drills, something many were expecting.

The news was confirmed by NFL insider Tom Pelissero, who, through his official X (formerly Twitter) account @TomPelissero, reported on Jeanty’s decision ahead of the event.

“Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty has elected to participate only in medical evaluations and team interviews at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, per his agent @henryorgann. He will take part in on-field drills during Boise State’s Pro Day,” Pelissero stated.

This past season, Jeanty posted extraordinary numbers: he rushed for a total of 2,601 yards, scoring 29 touchdowns on the ground. Additionally, he recorded 23 receptions for 138 yards and a touchdown through the air.

Where could Jeanty land?

Jeanty’s talent displayed throughout the past college football season caught the attention of both insiders and outsiders. Naturally, making the jump to the NFL is not for everyone, but this player has shown the skills to overcome any obstacle.

Although there is still no certainty regarding his final destination, many predict he will be selected in the first round, possibly even within the top ten picks. Additionally, his potential arrival with the Dallas Cowboys has been discussed, something the running back himself has previously expressed a desire to make happen.

For example, Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt believes this move could benefit both sides: “The Cowboys need a running back, in my estimation,” Klatt said. “They were 30th in the league in yards per carry this past year. Jerry (Jones) has shown he’s not afraid to draft a running back in the first round. I’m going with running back, Ashton Jeanty, from Boise State, going to the Dallas Cowboys.”

He also added: “Jeanty is the best running back available. This guy is an unreal runner. He’s a plus runner. Whenever the play is blocked for him, he’s gaining plus yardage on top of that. He’s physical, he’s fast, he’s got home run ability. While they didn’t throw it to him a lot this last year, it was more based on the fact that they were going to hand it to him 28 times… He can catch it and he’s got pass-catching production in his background at Boise State.”

Cam Ward, another who could follow in Jeanty’s footsteps

Jeanty’s decision to skip the drills at the Combine seems to involve more than one player who declared for the upcoming NFL Draft. Cam Ward, quarterback for the Miami Hurricanes, is said to have made the same decision.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported this through his X account @RapSheet: “Per @TomPelissero on @GMFB, it’s uncertain whether Cam Ward will throw at the Combine. But, Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart, Bama QB Jalen Milroe and Notre Dame QB Riley Leonard will throw.”

Jeanty has been one of the most standout offensive players in the last NCAAF season. His explosive running ability and exceptional physical condition have made it clear that the running back is destined for the NFL once this season ends.

On their part, the Cowboys faced serious issues in this department, so a potential arrival of the Broncos star in Dallas doesn’t sound bad at all. In recent statements to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Jeanty opened up about it: “It would be special.”

“Obviously, growing up in Frisco and spending a lot of time out there. I think it’d be cool having a star on my helmet again. Playing for Lone Star (High School), I had a star on my helmet as well. It would be a dope moment to have that happen.”

The RB’s season is undoubtedly one for the history books in College Football. Jeanty finished with 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns, marking one of his best years before heading to the NFL.

Some believe that Jeanty’s arrival may not be a good idea

The Cowboys are one of the many franchises that had a disappointing season, not only in terms of results but also in terms of play. Now without Mike McCarthy as HC, the franchise, led by Jerry Jones, will look to strengthen the roster in the best way possible to slowly steer the ship in the right direction.

Emmitt Smith, a three-time Super Bowl champion and one of the best RBs the Cowboys had in the ’90s, stated that, in his view, the team is still not ready to incorporate a player of Jeanty’s caliber.

“If he comes to the Cowboys right now, he’s going to get beat up,” Smith said Thursday. “I don’t think we’re ready. We don’t have the right mindset. We don’t have the right commitments.”

Ashton Jeanty was undoubtedly one of the pleasant surprises of this College Football season, leading his Boise State Broncos to the playoffs with a record of twelve wins and two losses. Unfortunately for them, the loss to Penn State on December 31st ended their chances of advancing in the title hunt.

The running back’s numbers were outstanding, earning him a nomination for the prestigious Heisman Trophy, an honor that ultimately went to the versatile Colorado Buffaloes player, Travis Hunter.

Despite this, Jeanty has always been clear about his goal of being selected in the upcoming NFL Draft. In a recent interview with sports journalist Pat Doney, the still-Boise State player stated that it would be a dream come true to be chosen by the Cowboys and play alongside players of Dak Prescott‘s caliber.

“I would love to play for the Cowboys. It’d be like a dream come true. I used to play in their practice stadium for all our home games in high school. Even my freshman year, we practiced there when we came down here for the Frisco Bowl. Yeah, honestly, it would really just feel like I’m at home. I ain’t gonna say too much, but Dallas has always had a good running back. They play a lot better when they got a good running back,” Jeanty said.

Could Jeanty land in Dallas?

After Ashton Jeanty’s confirmation that he will enter the upcoming draft and his desire to join the Cowboys, it remains to be seen if, when the time comes, the running back will be able to fulfill his dream.

The franchise led by Jerry Jones will finally hold the 12th pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, which could jeopardize the possibility of Boise State’s star landing in the Lone Star State. Ahead of them, several teams with serious offensive struggles last season may choose to draft him before the 12th pick.

Teams like the Titans, Browns, Raiders, and Giants, for example, are likely to opt for one of the available quarterbacks. However, ahead of Dallas are teams like the Patriots, Saints, and Panthers, who are still looking to strengthen their offense ahead of next season.

The next NFL Draft: When will it take place?

Ashton Jeanty eagerly awaits to finally learn what his destination will be for the upcoming season. To find out, he will have to wait until April 24th, when the next NFL Draft begins in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

These are the first 10 picks in the first round:

• Tennessee Titans
• Cleveland Browns
• New York Giants
• New England Patriots
• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Las Vegas Raiders
• New York Jets
• Carolina Panthers
• New Orleans Saints
• Chicago Bears

“They executed. They tackled. We didn’t play our best,” Jeanty said after the game via 247 Sports. “I didn’t take care of the ball, so that’s why we weren’t able to get the job done.”

Although they couldn’t come out victorious in the matchup against PSU, Jeanty made it clear that the season for his Broncos was very good, and that he appreciated the effort made by all his teammates to get as far as they did.

“This season’s been a blessing,” the RB said. “God’s favor has been upon me and all my teammates all year, and I’m just thankful. Obviously we didn’t come away with the result that we did, not just me, but a lot of guys on this team did special things all year”

With yesterday’s loss, the Broncos concluded their participation in this College Football season with a record of 12 wins and only two losses. Jeanty, the star of the team, finished second in the voting for the Heisman Trophy.

Jeanty was left wanting another record

That Ashton Jeanty’s season was extraordinary is no surprise. The talented running back finished the season with 374 carries for 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns. Without a doubt, numbers that few could reach in college.

Despite these extraordinary numbers, Jeanty came close to breaking the record still held by Barry Sanders, who, in 1988, achieved a historic 2,628 yards in a single season. The Broncos player fell just 27 yards short of reaching it.

His departure to the NFL will likely leave this record in Sanders’ hands for a long time, as it will certainly be hard to see a talent of Jeanty’s magnitude in the NCAAF in the near future.

James Franklin expressed his plan to stop Jeanty

One of the biggest concerns leading up to the game for Penn State was undoubtedly the damage Boise State could inflict through its running backs, especially Ashton Jeanty. That’s why, once the game was over, James Franklin made it clear what the plan was to stop them.

“I think we did corral him. Not “sort of.” I think we did corral. They got some yards there at the end. And I think defensively, I think our team was sick of me talking about him. I think we got the point across about the respect that we have for that young man and the type of running back he is,” Franklin said.

“Even today, I think our defense would say they have a ton of respect for him and how many tackles he was able to break and how strong he is and the contact balance. He’s an impressive guy. But we’re pretty good on defense. Thought our D-line did a really good job of being disruptive and getting in the backfield. I thought we did a really good job gang-tackling. There were a few times where we didn’t wrap like we should have. But for the most part, our defense played lights out.“

After the game, where his team ultimately defeated the opponent with a solid 31-14 score, PSU’s HC faced the media in the press conference. When asked whether he prefers to face Kirby Smart’s team or Marcus Freeman’s, Franklin was very straightforward in his response.

“Honestly, I want to enjoy this Boise win and this Fiesta Bowl win for a couple hours. We’re going to enjoy the new year. We’re going to enjoy this win for a couple hours, and then obviously we’ll start to get a little bit of a head start on these teams,” he started.

“But obviously, two great programs. Won a bunch of games. History, tradition, talent, coaching. At this point in the season, you’re going to play really good people, and we’re excited about that opportunity. But tonight, we want to enjoy this for a couple of hours. There will be plenty of time, and hours, to get focused on those next opponents,” Franklin finally concluded.

The Nittany Lions are set to face the Orange Bowl next, with their opponent to be determined from the matchup between Georgia and Notre Dame. The game is scheduled for January 9 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida.

The challenge of stopping Jeanty

Ahead of this matchup, one of the biggest questions was how the Nittany Lions would manage to stop the offensive power of the Broncos, particularly on the ground. Ashton Jeanty was one of the standout players of the season in this department, and Penn State used its best strategies to completely shut down the talented RB.

“I think we did corral him. Not “sort of.” I think we did corral. They got some yards there at the end. And I think defensively, I think our team was sick of me talking about him. I think we got the point across about the respect that we have for that young man and the type of running back he is,” Franklin said.

“Even today, I think our defense would say they have a ton of respect for him and how many tackles he was able to break and how strong he is and the contact balance. He’s an impressive guy. But we’re pretty good on defense. Thought our D-line did a really good job of being disruptive and getting in the backfield. I thought we did a really good job gang-tackling. There were a few times where we didn’t wrap like we should have. But for the most part, our defense played lights out.“

Franklin expressed pride in the milestones achieved

James Franklin expressed great happiness for securing a spot in the CFP semifinals, but also for breaking some records within the program. Without a doubt, this has been a great season for the Nittany Lions.

“Just a couple of things I’ll say. Thirteen wins, first time in program history. Kaytron Allen and Nick Singleton both surpassing 1,000 yards in the same season. First time we’ve ever had two 1,000 yard rushers in the same season since joining the Big Ten [and in school history]. Then 34 wins over the last three years. We’re very, very proud of that. Consistency is hard to do, and our guys have done a great job at it. The maturity they’ve shown has been impressive. 8-0 in Fiesta Bowls. Penn State loves the Fiesta Bowl. We’ll come every year.”

[Watch Penn State vs Boise State online for FREE in the US on Fubo]

The College Football Playoff quarterfinals pit the No. 5 Penn State Nittany Lions (12-2) against the No. 8 Boise State Broncos (12-1) in the Fiesta Bowl, with Penn State entering as an 11-point favorite and the total set at 52.5 points.

The Nittany Lions are coming off a commanding 38-10 win over SMU, highlighting their offensive firepower, while the Broncos leaned on their stout defense to secure a 21-7 victory over UNLV. Both teams are poised to deliver standout performances as they battle for a spot in the semifinals.

When will the Penn State vs Boise State match be played?

Penn State will clash against Boise State this Tuesday, December 31st, in the 2024 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl. The game will kick off at 7:30 PM (ET).

Penn State vs Boise State: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:30 PM

CT: 6:30 PM

MT: 5:30 PM

PT: 4:30 PM

How to watch Penn State vs Boise State in the USA

Catch the 2024 college football clash between Penn State and Boise State live on Fubo (free trial). Alternatively, you can tune in to ESPN.

The player who will finish just behind Travis Hunter in the Heisman Trophy race spoke to the press and made it clear that he feels in peak physical condition to compete in the upcoming game against Drew Allar’s team in Glendale, Arizona.

“It’s a great feeling, I’ll say that,” Jeanty said. “Obviously, you want the ball in your hands. But time off, recovery, rest, sleep, that’s the best thing you can have as an athlete. … Last time I was feeling this super fresh, you [saw] what I did. Hopefully not just me, but the whole offense and defense, we can all play our best game.”

The break came at a good time for one of the best running backs in the nation, as being in peak physical condition at this point in the season can be crucial. Jeanty leads the NCAAF in rushing yards with 344 carries this season.

Jeanty knows he will be facing a tough defense

Ashton Jeanty has had an incredible season so far, putting up numbers rarely seen in the program. However, it can’t be overlooked that in the Fiesta Bowl, he will face one of the toughest defenses he has ever played against.

“They got some really good players,” Jeanty said about Nittany Lions’ defense. “Their front seven is elite, great linebackers, great D-line. They do a lot: blitzes, pressures, moving the D-line, stunts and all that. We know for sure we’re going to get some seven-, eight-man surfaces. That’s just natural from all the defenses we’ve seen. But we’re going to have to play a great game, stay ahead of the chains. They’re one of the best teams on third-and-long. So we want to stay out of those situations.”

Dirk Koetter would have preferred a different scenario for Jeanty

Although the 24 days Jeanty spent away from the field could have meant an extended rest period for one of the best players of the season, his offensive coordinator, Dirk Koetter, would have preferred having him on the field, playing more minutes alongside his teammates.

“I think most teams that are playing well would rather play than rest,” Koetter said to the press. “The time off scares me more than I think it helps us, with a couple of exceptions.”

Additionally, the OC made it clear that the Nittany Lions will present a tough challenge for his Broncos: “Going against your scout team every day is different than going against any real team, let alone a team that’s as good as Penn State,” the OC said. “The speed difference and then just time off. It’s been a really good schedule that Coach [Spencer] Danielson put together, as far as giving guys time off for Christmas, giving guys enough time to get their bodies back. But that’s just me personally. I would rather keep playing. But that’s just me.”

The reason for Danielson’s particular focus on Warren is that the tight end in Penn State’s is a human swiss-knife. Warren can do it all in James Franklin’s system, he is the leading receiver with over 1,000 yards and six touchdowns.

Moreover, the senior-year tight end has rushed for 197 yards and four touchdowns, and has completed three passes, including one for a touchdown. In addition to his stacked curriculum, Warren is a sensational blocker.

Danielson and the Broncos are rightfully cautious about Warren as they will have a handful trying to contain him during their playoff clash on December 31. However, Boise State’s head coach didn’t shy away from complimenting the talented Penn State star, issuing a bold prediction.

“I mean, Tyler Warren is elite,” Danielson stated, via On3. “And that’s not just my opinion. I’m very positive he’s going to be probably the first tight end taken off the board in the NFL Draft, because of that. I mean, he can do it all. He is extremely violent at the point of attack… he can catch every ball. He’s one of their top targets in all downs. And he can play wildcat and throw the ball, too.“

Two stars collide

On New Year’s Eve, two of the biggest sensations in the NCAA will meet on the gridiron. Boise State’s Heisman runner-up Ashton Jeanty will go against a studded Penn State defense. The Nittany Lions are coming off an astonishing defensive outing against SMU, intercepting three passes and returning two of them for touchdowns.

As for Penn State, Warren is the cornerstone of their offense as he holds everything together. Quarterback Drew Allar had a relatively quiet game against SMU and will look to put on better stats against Boise State. However, he understands winning is what’s most important, and Allar sent a message to those who criticized his last performance.

Penn State and Boise State will go head-to-head on December 31, at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Arizona. Kickoff is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. ET. The winner will move on to the Orange Bowl where they’ll face the winner of Notre Dame-Georgia.

Many had predicted a close battle between these two outstanding players to see who would ultimately receive the most votes. Quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Cam Ward were somewhat further behind in the race. Hunter, who had an exceptional season with his team, managed to pull ahead of Jeanty.

Despite not winning the trophy, the RB expressed happiness about being among the top candidates. In a conversation with the press, he made his feelings clear about coming so close to winning the Heisman.

“Obviously it wasn’t the result I was hoping for, I kind of just had to take a moment to debrief and just appreciate the fact that I was even here,” Jeanty said in an interview with KTVB’s Jay Tust. “… I really felt like I should’ve walked away with the award, but kudos to Travis for winning.”

After the ceremony, Jeanty and his team are focused on the upcoming playoffs. Having secured the third seed, the Broncos will have a week off before facing the winner of the Penn State vs. SMU game on December 31.

How close was Jeanty to Hunter in the Heisman Race?

Ashton Jeanty was very close to Travis Hunter in the Heisman Trophy race. While Hunter ultimately took the award, Jeanty finished as a strong contender, with the final vote tally being a tight competition. Despite Hunter’s exceptional season, Jeanty was not far behind, showcasing how competitive the race was between the two players.

Since the 2009 voting, there hasn’t been a race as close for the Heisman Trophy. Back then, Alabama running back Mark Ingram (1,304 points) narrowly beat Stanford running back Toby Gerhart (1,276 points).

Travis Hunter earned 552 first-place votes and a total of 2,231 points to claim the second Heisman Trophy in Colorado’s history. This was just enough to surpass Boise State standout Ashton Jeanty, who garnered 309 first-place votes, 517 second-place votes, and 56 third-place votes, totaling 2,017 points.