When the New England Patriots crumble, the drama doubles.
Have things reached rock bottom in Foxborough? The Patriots dynasty days are now a hazy memory, and the blame game is in full swing. One piece of that dynasty recently spoke out about how poorly things have gone in New England, and it’s clear former head coach Bill Belichick isn’t dodging the shrapnel.
With Belichick’s absence preceding one of the organization’s most futile seasons, some have taken issue with first-year head coach Jerod Mayo, who had long been seen as the heir apparent. Patriots fans are not just sipping tea; they’re chugging frustration.
Brian Hoyer Blames Bill Belichick and Backs Jerod Mayo As Patriots Struggle
The Patriots (3-11) are struggling, and former quarterback Brian Hoyer isn’t sugarcoating the situation. The Super Bowl champion took a jab at the state of the franchise, pointing fingers while offering some perspective.
“People want an instant turnaround,” Hoyer began. “The reason Jerod’s the head coach right now is because things didn’t work out at the end of Bill [Belichick] coaching here. That’s just reality.”
Hoyer didn’t stop there.
He candidly called out Belichick’s leadership, implying that the current mess in Foxborough is a product of decisions made during the legendary coach’s tenure. “That’s where this organization is at, is because of where he [Belichick] led it to be,” Hoyer said.
Brian Hoyer’s thoughts on the #Patriots:
“The reason Jerod’s the head coach right now is because things didn’t work out at the end of Bill [coaching] here. That’s just the reality… That’s where this organization is at, because where [Bill] led it to be.” 🤐
(🎥 @quicksnappod) pic.twitter.com/I9jPEOTApq
— Carlos Talks Pats (@LosTalksPats) December 18, 2024
As for Mayo, Hoyer acknowledged the uphill battle for the first-time head coach. “Jerod is trying to get things going, and it’s his first time being a head coach. The roster needs to be turned over; that’s clear.”
Hoyer also criticized the media for chasing a scapegoat while players have openly admitted their share of shortcomings. “The media wants to pin a scapegoat, but when the players are coming out and saying, ‘we need to do a better job,’ you need to listen to that.”
It’s a harsh reality check for a franchise once known for dominance. With Mayo at the helm and Belichick’s legacy under scrutiny, the Patriots’ rebuild is shaping up to be anything but smooth. Change has come, but at what cost?
Belichick Talks Transition to College Football, Avoids Contract Rumors
Belichick, the mastermind behind six Super Bowl wins, just made waves with his move to college football, taking the reins as the 35th head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Officially announced on Dec. 11, Belichick’s deal is as eye-popping as his NFL legacy: $10 million per year (guaranteed for three seasons), plus $3.5 million in annual incentives.
But when asked about his rumored $10 million buyout clause on the “Let’s Go!” podcast, the iconic coach sidestepped. “I don’t discuss contracts,” he said. “I’m here at North Carolina. I want to be at Carolina and I’m excited about being at Carolina.”
Belichick’s transition is already in full swing. “We’re chasing some of the transfer players and finished up some of the recruiting signings,” he shared.
As for college football’s new era of NIL deals and player compensation? “It’s really a lot like pro football,” he quipped, comparing it to the NFL’s salary cap and player mobility.
From calling plays in Foxborough to retooling the Tar Heels, Belichick’s next chapter is shaping up to be just as unpredictable, and entertaining, as the man himself.
