Getting the quarterbacks ready
Perhaps one of the bigger challenges of the offseason for Bill Belichick is making sure that his quarterbacks are up to speed. As has been well-documented, the New England Patriots are entering a world without Tom Brady. Now, Jarrett Stidham and Brian Hoyer will have the offense fall on their shoulders. Following Tom Brady is a difficult task, and Belichick has to be ready to adjust as much as the quarterbacks.
For one, scaling down the playbook might be beneficial for both coach and signal-callers. Brady was in the New England Patriots system for the better part of 20 years. He knew the nuances and audibles like the back of his hand. In some cases, he was even his own offensive coordinator. The Patriots don’t have that luxury in their quarterback anymore.
The challenge for Bill Belichick this offseason is to assess the strengths of Stidham and Hoyer and adjust the playbook accordingly., Belichick might want to scale back the playbook and give the offense a set of plays that both quarterbacks are comfortable with.
This will not be easy for either quarterback or coach. However, it is necessary in an adjustment period. This will truly test Belichick’s ability as a game-planner and strategist. It will be fascinating to see how he adjusts, if at all.