Late Fumble Dooms Tar Heels at Cal | JQJO

North Carolina’s search for a breakthrough under Bill Belichick slipped away at California, 21-18, when Nathan Leacock fumbled at the goal line with 3:48 left after Brent Austin’s hit and recovery. The Tar Heels also fumbled on their first snap, setting up a Cal touchdown, and finished without a defensive takeaway despite improved rushing and defensive stops. Belichick said turnovers were decisive as his team continues seeking its first win over a power opponent after three earlier blowouts. The defeat arrived amid off-field scrutiny of the new regime and with wins only against lower-level Richmond and Charlotte.