A proposed North Carolina bill aimed at enhancing intrastate athletic competition has advanced through the state’s House Appropriations committee, signaling potential changes for UNC and NC State football schedules. Dubbed House Bill 965, the legislation mandates that both universities regularly face in-state Group of Five schools like Appalachian State, Charlotte, or East Carolina.
Under the bill’s provisions, UNC and NC State would be obliged to include Appalachian State, Charlotte, or East Carolina in their football schedules each season, engaging in home-and-away series with each of these schools over a six-year period.
While UNC recently concluded a 2-for-1 series with Appalachian State, and currently has Charlotte on its schedule, future matchups beyond 2025 are not confirmed. Similarly, NC State’s 2024 non-conference slate features Western Carolina, with upcoming games against ECU and Appalachian State, but no confirmed matchups beyond 2028.
The legislative rationale emphasizes economic development, seeking to bolster opportunities within the state. Additionally, the bill mandates annual matchups between UNC and NC State in men’s and women’s basketball and football to safeguard against potential disruptions due to conference realignment.
Despite Appalachian State’s FCS status until 2013, historical matchups with North Carolina have been limited, with only four games played prior to the recent 2-for-1 series. NC State has dominated their encounters, winning all six contests. In contrast, NC State holds a 19-13 record against East Carolina, while North Carolina leads 11-5 in their matchups. Charlotte, having launched its football program in 2013, has yet to face either UNC or NC State.
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