Whenever Bill Belichick speaks, provided it’s at an audible level, people listen. And we know there’s usually more to what he says then, well, just what he says when he speaks. Some sort of subtext, agenda or hidden meaning is often at play when we’re treated to one of his diatribes. Which is what makes his Wednesday remarks on the Patriots' upcoming opponent, the Chicago Bears, all the more fascinating.
A whopping seven minutes on how great the Chicago Bears, the 2-4 Chicago Bears, are? Dissertations on lacrosse, special teams, the history of Navy football or how much he hates the mandated use of Microsoft Surface tablets on the sideline, are what Belichick usually reserves his praise or disdain for. But this was next level. This is a team that is offensively challenged, to be kind, and has won their two games this season thanks to a monsoon in the opener and the ineptitude of a team many consider a contender for worst in the NFL; the Houston Texans. And yet the Patriots coach would have you thinking they’re ready to come in and dance “The Super Bowl Shuffle” at Gillette.
There’s truth to Belichick’s praise of Justin Fields, as the QB is tremendous on the run and making things happen with his feet...which is often out of necessity since his line stinks and his receivers are, well, not terrific. And on defense, linebacker Roquan Smith is a game-changer with his instinct, speed and tackling prowess. But this takes it to another level. One has to think this a sermon aimed more at making sure his team doesn’t take the Bears for granted. Making sure the Patriots, fresh off a 23-point road win against a better team and with national media buzzing about thanks to Zappe Hour, stay focused and humble is likely at the root of this tire pumping. That and perhaps Belichick has a deeply rooted respect for the Bears as he just tied their great coach, George “Papa Bear” Halas for second most wins all-time as a coach in the NFL with 324. One thing is certain: We’ll never know for sure.
Whatever the case, the Patriots, favored by seven and a half points, take on the formidable, talented, impressive, dangerous and explosive Bears of Chicago next Monday night in Foxboro.
Related
