Alex Van Pelt shows Jerod Mayo how to have his guy’s back
The New England Patriots have had problems with accountability and solidarity this season, but offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt just showed them how it’s done.
It’s incredible that something so simple and easy would have to be demonstrated, but Van Pelt just showed Mayo how to shut down any concerns that the two didn’t support each other. Earlier this week, Mayo had to walk back yet another foot-in-mouth moment after he, whether inadvertently or not, threw Van Pelt under the bus after last Sunday’s loss to the Arizona Cardinals. The now-infamous “You said it, I didn’t,” in response to a question related to a critical offensive play-call.
We can now debate whether Van Pelt’s reaction was the truth, but he did the easiest thing a coach can do with the media, and the one thing that Mayo seems to struggle with the most, even more than anything on the field: Van Pelt said the right thing.
“I didn’t see [the original comment], I had no idea, and then I was watching tape early in the morning and he said what he had said,” Van Pelt said. “I have Jerod’s back at all costs. We have a great relationship. We’re very communicative. I took no offense to that whatsoever. I think it was taken out of context, as he said. We have a great relationship.”
That Mayo seems to have a good relationship with the majority, if not all, of his assistants and his players, may be part of the problem. It’s a nice atmosphere internally, and he treats people well, but is it translating to wins? Not even close.
Mayo’s status feels up in the air, but reports have consistently leaned toward him staying with the Patriots for a second season. At the same time, multiple reporters have couched their information by saying Mayo needs to show out well for the rest of the season.
He can start by having his guys’ backs publicly. He could learn a thing or two from the guy he threw under the bus, and who very well could be his fall guy after the season.
Matt Dolloff is a writer and digital content producer for 98.5 The Sports Hub. Read all of his articles here.
