There are infinite rumors about why the Tom Brady and Bill Belichick partnership came to an end. After six Super Bowl victories and nine trips to the big game together, they felt destined to ride into the sunset after their time in the NFL. However, the shock of all shocks went down, and Brady eventually finished his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
In the time since, though, the two parties have mended fences, with Belichick a member of the Tom Brady Roast on Netflix as well. Recently, during a string of media appearances to promote his new book, the legendary head coach even revealed some key characteristics about Brady that he really liked.
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Bill Belichick Reveals the Tom Brady Secret
During a nearly two-decade-long run, Brady and Belichick dominated the NFL unlike virtually any other coach and quarterback combo. Cementing the New England Patriots dynasty, they tied all franchises for most Super Bowl rings in a short time.
During an appearance on “The Pivot Podcast” with Ryan Clark, Belichick revealed what made the three-time league MVP such a special player and quarterback. In particular, he had three attributes that set the GOAT apart.
“As a quarterback, we all know the worst situation you can be in is long yardage. And so, as long as the ball moves forward, you stay out of long yardage. And Tom did such a great job of not allowing negative plays to happen to our offense – no pre-snap penalties, no sacks.”
That awareness extended to audibles as well. “If the run didn’t look good, he would check it to the other side or throw a quick look pass to one of the receivers. But he kept us out of negative plays and kept us out of long yardage.”
The second key thing was understanding his teammates and putting them in the best position to ensure that the team could reach its ultimate goal.
“Tom really understood how Randy could be productive, how Kevin Faulk could be productive, how James White could be productive, how Rob could be productive, how Julian could be productive. [He understood] what the skills were of those guys, how to use those guys.”
The final point, however, is the one that Brady is regarded highly for throughout the world: his clutchness. “He made great decisions under pressure and had a tremendous ability to see the field and understand situational football.”
He led game-winning drives in six of his seven Super Bowls, including the most remarkable comeback in NFL history in the infamous 28-3 game. That game was a microcosm of all three traits that Belichick mentioned.
Together, they formed a duo unlike any other. And for longtime Patriots fans, it is a pleasure to see the two on amicable terms once again.