For many years, as the New England Patriots won Super Bowl after Super Bowl, head coach Bill Belichick had as sterling a reputation as one could have, and he almost seemed to be above any real criticism.
But ever since legendary quarterback Tom Brady left following the 2019 season, the Patriots have struggled, especially this season, as they hold a poor 1-4 record and are last in points per game.
Belichick has been not only their head coach but also their de facto general manager since the 2000 season, and it has led to him being criticized in recent weeks for his team’s bad play and lackluster roster makeup.
Per NBC Sports Boston, Mike Florio said that New England’s problems are squarely on Belichick because he hasn’t brought in players capable of making plays and allowing them to at least be competitive.
“They don’t have the talent right now and it all flows to the guy who’s both the coach and defacto general manager”@ProFootballTalk‘s Mike Florio joins @tomecurran to discuss the #Patriots‘ issues
: https://t.co/7NHUFQR1Ha
: https://t.co/z37U18SMAl@FDSportsbook pic.twitter.com/XfYjK9WtNr— NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSBoston) October 12, 2023
In particular, Florio accused Belichick of not making an effort to upgrade his team’s offense because perhaps he felt bringing back Bill O’Brien as its offensive coordinator would be enough.
O’Brien had previously been New England’s offensive coordinator during the 2011 season, and before that, he had been with the team as a member of Belichick’s coaching staff in various capacities dating back to 2007.
Although quarterback Mac Jones has been struggling and appears to perhaps not be a starting-caliber signal-caller, many are now blaming Belichick for his struggles instead of blaming Jones himself.
There have even been suggestions that Belichick’s job could be in jeopardy, something which seemed unthinkable even a year ago.
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