An unexpected narrative has formed so far this season: an increased understanding of just how remarkably special quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Brees were. This narrative has come to be exclusively due to the ongoing struggles of their former head coaches, Bill Belichick and Sean Payton.
Much has been said about Payton’s issues in Denver – including by yours truly – but Belichick’s problems in New England should not be overlooked. Right now, the Patriots are downright dreadful. New England is one of the worst teams in the league at 1-4, with their lone win coming against the Zach Wilson-led Jets in an ugly 15-10 defensive slugfest. In the last two weeks alone, Belichick has suffered the first and second worst losses of his career, being shellacked by an astonishing 72-3 combined margin.
The Patriots’ sharp fall from grace has some asking a question previously thought to be unthinkable: could Bill Belichick finally be on the hot seat to lose his job? Asking this question even a few months ago would have gotten someone laughed out of a room, but according to Jeff Howe at the Athletic, it may not be so preposterous:
“There’s a school of thought that suggests Bill Belichick has earned the right to go out on his own accord, that the architect of the greatest dynasty in NFL history can coach in New England as long as he chooses. Kraft doesn’t subscribe to it…”
Former Seahawks legend Richard Sherman said on Undisputed back in September that he believes Belichick should receive more criticism. Sherman had a point then, and it’s only been further proven correct. Since Brady left, New England is 26-29 with only one Wild Card appearance.
The exact ending point of the Patriots’ dynasty is up for discussion. Many will say it was over the minute Brady signed with Tampa. Others will argue it was when they lost 47-17 to the Bills in the playoffs. I personally say it was when Chandler Jones returned this fumble in a loss to Las Vegas. The Dynasty started with a “fumble” against the Raiders, and it ended with one against the Raiders. It’s like poetry, it rhymes.
But what is indisputable is the fact The Dynasty is officially over. Belichick is the only remaining vestige, and now we wonder how much longer he’ll last.
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