How One Hit Altered the NFL Landscape
On September 23, 2001, a hit during an NFL game changed the trajectory of the New England Patriots forever. Mo Lewis’s tackle on Drew Bledsoe was not just a moment in the game; it was a pivotal event.
This incident knocked Bledsoe out of action and opened the door for Tom Brady. Little did anyone know that this would usher in an era of dominance.
The Fallout from the Hit
After the hit, Brady took over as the starting quarterback. Under his leadership, the Patriots won six Super Bowls, changing the franchise’s history.
Bledsoe suffered serious injuries, including a collapsed lung, which ended his starting position. This moment cemented Brady’s place in NFL history.
Mo Lewis’s Perspective
In the upcoming book, “Brady vs. Belichick” by Gary Myers, Lewis shifts some blame to Bledsoe. He argues that Bledsoe’s decision to scramble was not in line with his role as a massive contract hitter.
The Legacy of Mo Lewis
Though Lewis has remained out of the public eye since retirement, his hit is still the most noted aspect of his career. As a two-time All-Pro, he had an impressive NFL record.
Lewis downplays the significance of the hit. He describes it as just another play. This viewpoint underscores a common theme among athletes: singular moments shaping their careers.
Public Perception vs. Personal Reality
Lewis admits that while others see this hit as a monumental event, he doesn’t think about it often. “It’s really irrelevant to me,” he states, emphasizing a player’s ability to move on.
This contrast between public perception and personal reality provides insight into how players cope with moments that define their legacy.
The NFL and Its Historical Milestones
The NFL hasn’t forgotten about Lewis’s hit. Some polls ranked it as one of the most game-changing moments in league history.
In 2019, he was ranked No. 82 in a list of the top game changers, reminding fans of the event’s lasting legacy.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment in NFL History
Ultimately, the hit by Mo Lewis on Drew Bledsoe was more than just a tackle; it was the catalyst for a sporting dynasty. It ignited a conversation about accountability, legacy, and the fine line between a single play and monumental change.
As fans, we often remember these moments as defining, but for players like Bledsoe and Lewis, they represent complex intersections of career highs and lows. The ripple effect continues to influence the NFL landscape today.