Bill Belichick, the legendary former head coach of the New England Patriots, is no stranger to the Atlanta Falcons. Their connection stems from Super Bowl LI in 2017, when Belichick’s Patriots pulled off one of the most jaw-dropping comebacks in sports history.
The game started disastrously for New England, with the Falcons taking a commanding 28-3 lead in the third quarter. However, Belichick’s squad orchestrated an unprecedented rally, forcing the first-ever overtime in Super Bowl history and securing a 34-28 victory. The comeback remains one of the most talked-about moments in NFL history and a sore point for Falcons fans.
Now, years later, Belichick’s girlfriend, Jordon Hudson, has reignited this memory in a playful manner.
Jordon Hudson’s Bold Fashion Statement in New Orleans
Belichick, 72, and Hudson, 24, were spotted in New Orleans ahead of Super Bowl LIX, where they were seen enjoying the festivities. However, it was Hudson’s choice of attire that stole the show. She was photographed wearing a T-shirt that read “Champions Super Bowl LI Falcons,” an ironic statement given that the Falcons never actually won that game.
Many saw this as a lighthearted troll aimed at the Falcons, who famously blew the 28-3 lead against Belichick’s Patriots. Given the coach’s history with the team, Hudson’s wardrobe choice seemed far from accidental.
NFL fans immediately picked up on the joke, with social media buzzing about Hudson’s choice of attire. Some found it amusing, while others debated whether it was intentional or just a coincidence. However, considering the circumstances, it’s hard to imagine that she wasn’t having a bit of fun at the Falcons’ expense.
Why This Moment Is Even More Ironic
Beyond the infamous Super Bowl LI collapse, there’s another reason why Belichick’s history with the Falcons is relevant today. Just last year, the Falcons interviewed Belichick for their head coaching vacancy but ultimately decided to go in a different direction. After parting ways with head coach Arthur Smith, the Falcons considered several candidates, including Belichick, before ultimately hiring Raheem Morris.
Given that Belichick boasts six Super Bowl titles as a head coach and is widely regarded as one of the greatest football minds in history, many found it surprising that Atlanta turned him down. Hudson’s shirt, therefore, could be seen as a subtle dig, highlighting the team’s past struggles and their recent decision to pass on hiring Belichick.
A Star-Studded Night in New Orleans
The couple wasn’t just out for a casual stroll. While in New Orleans, Belichick and Hudson ran into none other than NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. The sighting sparked plenty of chatter, as Belichick and Goodell have had a complicated relationship over the years, particularly due to the “Deflategate” controversy involving the Patriots in 2015.
Later in the evening, Belichick and Hudson met up with longtime sports broadcaster Jim Gray and his wife for a double date. Gray has covered the NFL for decades and has a well-documented professional relationship with Belichick, often securing exclusive interviews with the legendary coach.
Belichick’s Transition to College Football
At 72 years old, Bill Belichick is now embarking on a new chapter in his coaching career. After parting ways with the Patriots following the 2023 season, Belichick was left without a head coaching job in the NFL. However, he quickly found a new role as the head coach at the University of North Carolina (UNC).
This move marks a major shift from his decades-long tenure in the NFL. While many assumed Belichick would remain at the professional level, he surprised the football world by making the jump to college coaching. Since taking over at UNC, Belichick has been making an effort to connect with students, even reportedly ordering pizzas for fraternities on campus.
Many wonder how his coaching style, which has long been known for its rigid discipline and strategic brilliance, will translate to the college level.
The Couple’s High-Profile Public Appearances
Belichick and Hudson have become increasingly visible at major sporting events, drawing significant media attention due to their 48-year age difference.
The couple made a headline-grabbing appearance at the NFL Honors ceremony, where Belichick proudly showcased his Super Bowl rings. Hudson, who has a background in competitive cheerleading, sported her own cheerleading championship ring.
However, it was NFL Honors host Snoop Dogg who stole the moment with a joke about their age gap. The rapper and longtime football fan made a playful jab at their relationship, recalling an era when the Dallas Cowboys were dominant, the Kansas City Chiefs were struggling, and Hudson “wasn’t even born yet.”
While the joke got plenty of laughs, onlookers noted that Belichick appeared less amused, while Hudson took the joke in stride.
A Look Ahead to Super Bowl LIX
As Super Bowl LIX approaches, all eyes are on the showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. The game is set to kick off at 6:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 11, and is expected to draw millions of viewers.
While Belichick may not be on the sidelines this time, his presence in New Orleans and Hudson’s Falcons-themed shirt have added an unexpected subplot to the week’s festivities.
For Falcons fans, the reminder of Super Bowl LI may still sting, but for Belichick and Hudson, it’s all just part of the fun.