The Texan trap

Page 7 of 25 -- -- Brian Simmons, Carver Massachusetts

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A: I really don't understand how the blame for what happened in New York would rest on Parcells and not Belichick. Bill knew for years that Parcells was grooming him to be HC of the NYJ. This didn't come as a surprise. And knowing Parcells as we all do, how long would he have stayed in the Jets' front office? How long did he stay in the front office? Certainly, I understand that after so many years under Parcells you want to break loose and be your own man; just as, I would assume, Romeo Crennel would like to break loose and be a head coach. Fact is, Belichick had a contract and the league upheld the contract. It took negotiations between Parcells and Kraft in a trade to free him. And the situation got him to NE where he's become an icon. As Parcells often says, it worked out great for Belichick. I'm a little unsure what you mean on the last part of your question. If you could clarify and get back to me, I'd be happy to answer it.

I am desperately looking for a tape of Monday night's football game between the Patriots and Broncos. Chris Bonifant, Alexandria, Va.

Go Pats!!!

-- Jayme Martin, Pembroke Pines, FL

A: Way to go Jayme.

Seeing as the Pats are having pretty good success this year, I am fairly sure that other NFL franchises will look to the New England for potential hires. I was curious who you think would have the biggest/least impact loss to the Patriots if they were in fact offered better jobs with another team: Scott Pioli, Romeo Crennel or Charlie Weis.

-- Mike Murphy, Providence, RI

A: Great question. Given that Weis' offense is probably the weak link on a very good team, I would say Charlie. But I suppose you can make an argument for all three guys. Understand, that while Crennel makes the defensive game plans and the calls, Belichick can coach defense. And while Scott Pioli does a nice job along with his excellent scouting staff of finding players, Belichick makes the final call on those players.

I don't understand why you won't answer a very fair question: At what point (if any) would you admit that you were wrong about the Patriots trading Bledsoe to the Bills?

-- David Berg, New York, NY

A: I know there's a long drum roll, David, and you're anxious to hear an answer that suits you. But I don't think I can give you one until the season ends.

When you write in Ask Nick that Belichick "betrayed" Parcells what exactly do you mean? I don't think that is a fair characterization. Betrayal to me means more like what Parcells did to the Patriots during the week before he was to coach in the Super Bowl.
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