Mac Jones is one of several offensive players who have ever played under both Nick Saban at Alabama and Bill Belichick with the New England Patriots.
Jones shined during his three-year run with the Alabama Crimson Tide, which included a multitude of records set, and the national championship win last season. His preparation and leadership was often lauded by many during his time in Tuscaloosa, which Saban sees has translated well into his rookie campaign in the NFL. And under Belichick this season, Jones has gradually emerged as a top contender for the 2021 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
For Jones, there has been one major coaching trait of both Saban and Belichick’s that has had a grand influence on him, which he explained ahead of the Patriots’ bye week in Week 14.
“I've been asked this question a million times, but I think they are very similar in that they demand everything to be perfect and they know what it takes to win,” Jones said. “I've been blessed to play for great coaches.
“I've been a part of great teams and I think we have a really good team here with great chemistry and not only a great coach, but great assistant coaches too. He does a great job of explaining how to win and that's what a lot of great coaches do. You have to understand what it takes. You have to execute it and go out there and do it. That's what your job is, the players.”
Saban and Belichick have often stressed the importance of doing the most to prepare for games, whether in practice or in the field room. This sure has paid off well for them over the past two decades.
The Patriots will return to action in Week 15 with a road matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Much will be on the line for the Patriots in this contest, especially as they currently hold the No. 1 seed in the AFC.