NFL
By Steve Atkinson
Bill Belichick is widely regarded as the greatest defensive head coach in NFL history. However, this season, the flaws of his previously undermined coaching staff are becoming apparent. Belichick appointed his son, Steve Belichick, as the play caller, while Jerod Mayo oversaw the meetings. But one has to wonder if Steve was truly calling the plays or if his father was directing him from behind the scenes to enhance his own reputation; I believe the latter is the case.
Belichick Would Make The Defense Better For The Patriots
The new defensive staff, led by DeMarcus Covington, has been undermined by Belichick’s influence. Additionally, the new head coach, who has never called plays before, and general manager Eliot Wolf, both appear to be on trial because of Belichick’s overshadowing presence. Even when Matt Patricia, Belichick’s best friend, was the defensive coordinator, it is likely that Belichick was still calling the plays to maintain his image.
Patriots GM Eliot Wolf Gets A Pass
Belichick exerted control over everything related to the roster and the defense. On the offensive side, he has struggled, and Tom Brady often masked his drafting mistakes on that side of the ball. Eliot Wolf needs to have a strong offseason, focusing on acquiring offensive linemen and receivers as he continues his trial.
Belichick Is Happy The Patriots Are Struggling Especially On Defense
Belichick may be pleased to see the defense in turmoil, as he is no longer directly involved. However, he is likely concerned about the offensive situation, especially since they now have a quarterback who, unlike Mac Jones, needs better protection and receiving options. While both quarterbacks require support, the one advantage that Maye has over Mac is his speed.
It’s essential to recognize that the Patriots’ current struggles can, in part, be attributed to Belichick’s tendency to undermine his staff over the years and to promote his friends and family members. The Kraft family and others within the organization still hold Belichick accountable for the team’s standing, and they have a valid point. Despite being the greatest defensive head coach of all time, Belichick has been far less effective on the offensive side of the ball, with Tom Brady frequently covering for his shortcomings.
Belichick’s Buddy Always Has His Back
I’m sure Michael Lombardi will say some wonderful things about Belichick while criticizing the defense. You notice last year Lombardi blamed Mac Jones and not Belichick. Here’s what Lombardi said a month ago.
Right and last year it was Bill’s team and all you did Michael was blame the quarterback you moron. You gave no criticism of Belichick putting Patricia and Judge as the offensive coordinator in 2022. He gave no criticism of Belichick doing zero to protect Mac Jones and add some receivers in 2023. You just praise the defense which is the only side of the ball Belichick is good at.
It’s on Eliot Wolf like I’ve said to get the talent around Drake Maye. I’ll give him a pass on last off-season and this season as a trial run. If he doesn’t do anything good this off-season then he and Mayo’s jobs will be on the line a year from now. But right now they really do get a pass on this year whether people want to hear that or not.
