Today, Explained

The best and worst of Tom Brady

Feb 11, 2022
Seth Wickersham, an ESPN writer and author of "It's Better to Be Feared," dives into the complex legacy of Tom Brady, the NFL's winningest quarterback. He explores the duality of Brady's fame—how he's both admired and reviled. The talk covers significant controversies like Spygate and Deflategate, as well as Brady's polarizing lifestyle brand, TB12. Wickersham also touches on the athlete's political associations and reflects on the mixed emotions surrounding a champion's retirement. It's a compelling look at the impact of an icon on the football landscape.
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ANECDOTE

Brady's Early Success

  • Tom Brady's rise began after an injury to Drew Bledsoe, the Patriots' starting quarterback.
  • He won three Super Bowls in his first four years as a starter and dated actress Bridget Moynihan.
ANECDOTE

Backlash and Relationships

  • Public dislike for Brady increased when he left Bridget Moynihan and began dating Gisele Bündchen.
  • Moynihan's pregnancy with Brady's child further fueled the backlash against him.
ANECDOTE

Spygate Scandal

  • The Spygate scandal, involving the Patriots' illegal filming of opponents' signals, amplified the negativity surrounding Brady.
  • This scandal further cemented the perception of darkness behind greatness in football.
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