Review of Patriots ‘Dynasty’ Episodes 9 and 10: The Downfall of New England Due to Tom Brady-Bill Belichick Strife

The final two episodes of AppleTV+’s documentary “The Dynasty: New England Patriots” provide a deep dive into the strained relationship between quarterback Tom Brady and head coach Bill Belichick, ultimately leading to their split during the 2020 offseason. The documentary, which has been praised for its candid interviews on taboo topics in football, sheds light on the tension that existed within the Patriots organization during their final three seasons together.

Throughout the documentary, it becomes apparent that the success of the Patriots over the last decade was no easy feat. Team owner Robert Kraft admits that keeping Brady and Belichick together for 20 years was the hardest thing he has done in his business career. While many players and team personnel cite Belichick’s coaching style as a joyless dictatorship, it is clear that his strategic and motivational skills were instrumental in building the Patriots’ dynasty.

However, as the documentary progresses, it becomes evident that the relationship between Brady and Belichick deteriorated over time. The tone for their Super Bowl-winning 2018 season was set the year prior, with teammates discussing their dread of coming into the lifeless facility. The tension between Brady and Belichick was further amplified by Gisele Bundchen’s complaints about Belichick not treating her husband like a man. Winning was no longer enough to mask the strain between them, and their lack of direct communication required go-betweens to relay messages.

The documentary suggests that Kraft ultimately chose Belichick over Brady, but it is never directly addressed. Kraft does express doubts about Belichick’s decision to bench top cornerback Malcolm Butler during Super Bowl 52, which ultimately led to a loss against the Eagles. Kraft refers to Belichick as a pain in the tush but was willing to tolerate it as long as they were winning. However, after Belichick out-schemed Rams head coach Sean McVay in Super Bowl 53, it became clear to Brady that Belichick was not going anywhere.

The final season of Brady and Belichick’s partnership, which ended with a loss in the 2019 Wild Card playoffs, is largely glossed over in the documentary. Instead, the focus is on their breakup and the contrasting emotions displayed by Brady and Belichick. Brady’s voice cracks as he chokes back emotions, while Belichick remains stoic and monotone.

In hindsight, it appears that Kraft may have chosen wrong, as Belichick struggled without Brady, going 29-38 in four seasons post-Brady before parting ways with the Patriots. This provides an opportunity for others to get the last laugh on their Hall of Fame coach.

“The Dynasty: New England Patriots” offers a revealing look into the downfall of the Patriots due to the strained relationship between Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. The documentary shines a light on the challenges they faced in maintaining their success and provides insight into their ultimate split. It is a must-watch for any football fan interested in understanding the dynamics of one of the greatest dynasties in NFL history.