Let’s face it, it’s been a long time since anyone could assume that the normal laws of NFL gravity would apply to the Patriots, and that the ultrasuccessful team would soon start dropping back to Earth. At this point, even if and when Tom Brady finally calls it a career, there’s no guarantee that he’ll take New England’s dynasty into retirement with him.
That’s because Bill Belichick, in the midst of orchestrating a remarkably dominant defense, is once again proving that he’s the league’s reigning mastermind, even at age 67. And while his age might provide hope, at least among some, that he’s not long for the sidelines, Belichick has a message: Don’t hold your breath.