What can we say about Tom Brady?

This topic has 2 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 2 years, 11 months ago by zn.

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December 11, 2021 at 10:56 am #134511

wv
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Any thoughts on Tom Brady?

After all these years, I’m still not quite sure what to think/say about him,
how to evaluate him as a QB.

I know his ‘accomplishments’ and stats are second to none. That much is clear.

But its a team game, and theres a lot of context there. Would Brady be Brady
on a team like the old Saints that Archie Manning had to play for? Would Brady be Brady on the 97 Rams?

Brady has landed in two great situations. One with the best coach in the NFL, and one with a good coach and a host of talented players in Tampa.

But, is Brady really super-special as a QB? The best? The best ever?
Maybe. I dunno. I guess i think its unknowable.

He certainly does have an iron-will, and a brain that is good at quick
decision-making.

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December 11, 2021 at 11:20 am #134512

Billy_T
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My view:

He’s not the best, or really even close, if we’re just talking about physical abilities. He’s slow. He’s never had a strong arm. It’s solid, but not strong. But he gets the ball out quickly, and, as you mentioned, he processes things really fast. He may be the best ever in that last category. A coach on the field like few others, he sees it all, has seen it all.

IMO, he needs a strong team around him, especially a good offensive line. He’s “elite” when he has great protection. Can pick apart a defense with ease. Another key: he knows his own limitations. Doesn’t try to do what he can’t do, which is another great trait. Few QBs have ever had a better handle on their own abilities. Perhaps few athletes in any sport.

I’ve always thought that Archie Manning was a great QB on a horrible team, that ruined any chances of him ever showing his skills. Put Brady on that team, and he would have been driven out of the league in a couple of years. Most likely, a ton of sacks would have crushed his development and his spirit. But Manning likely would not have had the career Brady has had, with the Patriots, and then the Bucs, because of that “know thyself” factor. Who can say? But Manning certainly had the better arm and was gifted as a runner, unlike Brady.

Bottom line: I think Brady’s football IQ is what sets him apart, and his self-knowledge. From a pure physical skills POV, he’s not even top 25 all-time.

December 12, 2021 at 7:42 am #134526

zn
Moderator

Brady and Montana! Though Montana could run a bit.

What can you say about Brady?

He’s no Stafford though.

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