Bill Belichick’s potential downfall, as interpreted through Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” was recently featured on NBC Sports Boston.
Belichick, a history buff and avid student of Sun Tzu, drew inspiration from the famous Chinese general’s teachings to shape his coaching style; recently, however, those very teachings have come back to haunt him. With the likelihood of someone new prowling the Patriots sideline for the first time this century, Belichick’s empire seems to be crumbling. Once guided by Sun Tzu’s notion that “every battle is won before it is fought,” Belichick now embodies some of the tactical principles that have contributed to his team’s seeming point of no return.
Here are 10 quotes from “The Art of War” that draw attention to the Patriots’ and Belichick’s current predicament:
1. “If there is disturbance in the camp, the general’s authority is weak.”
Belichick’s rule always seemed precarious and was occasionally exposed by disgruntled players throughout history. When winning stops, disturbances arise; issues like Mac Jones’ frustration and passive-aggressive behavior from Jack Jones reveal a loss of Belichick’s control on the team.
2. “Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will.”
Belichick’s long-held strategy of neutralizing opponents’ strengths has shifted, making it evident that the Patriots lack an answer to what others do best.
3. “Attack is the secret of defense; defense is the planning of an attack.”
Belichick’s approach to the game now seems outdated in today’s NFL, which demands a focus on speed, quick-strike scoring, and relentless pressure on opponents.
4. “Rewards for good service should not be deferred a single day.”
The Patriots’ treatment of Tom Brady and the subsequent fallout illustrate the cost of not rewarding good service promptly.
5. “If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, then the general is to blame. But, if orders are clear and the soldiers nevertheless disobey, then it is the fault of their officers.”
This quote highlights coaching deficiencies within the Patriots organization, particularly under coaches like Matt Patricia and Joe Judge. The lack of communication between the coaching staff and players ultimately leads back to Belichick.
6. “Wheels of justice grind slow but grind fine.”
The once-dominant Patriots are now experiencing a taste of their own medicine, with opposing teams not holding back on running up scores.
7. “If you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; whereas death is certain if you cling to your corner.”
The post-Brady Patriots have displayed passivity, and their lack of fight has resulted in them landing in last place.
8. “Foreknowledge cannot be gotten from ghosts and spirits, cannot be had by analogy, cannot be found out by calculation. It must be obtained from people, people who know the conditions of the enemy.”
Belichick’s reluctance to adapt to the changing NFL landscape and consult a diverse array of experts points to his inability to leverage data and intelligence effectively.
9. “Treat your men as you would your own beloved sons. And they will follow you into the deepest valley.”
This quote remains untouched, symbolizing the subjective nature of its implication.
10. “It is only the enlightened ruler and the wise general who will use the highest intelligence of the army for the purposes of spying, and thereby they achieve great results.”
This quote also remains untouched, highlighting the value of listening to wisdom and leveraging intelligence effectively.
