Oracle After Hours: Is Tom Brady the greatest of all time?

Aria Jain, columnist

Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, was in kindergarten when Tom Brady won his first Super Bowl.  Eighteen years later, as the two quarterbacks prepare to face off in Super Bowl LV, Tom Brady is still breaking records as a Buccaneer.

But does his continued success in Tampa Bay prove that he is the greatest of all time?

Up until this year, I have never particularly admired Brady or felt he was in contention for the title of the ‘greatest ever’. Part of my opinion of him was tarnished after both Spygate and Deflategate unfolded. I also felt that much of his success was due to the New England Patriots legendary head coach, Bill Belichick. And while Brady contributed to the dynasty the Patriots created, I felt Belichick’s coaching was the primary reason for their accomplishments.

Then, after the Tennessee Titans upset the Patriots in the 2019 Wild Card Round of the playoffs, the possibility of Brady and his team’s era of success tapering out, was not a stretch. However, the real surprise came a few months later when Brady announced his signing with the Buccaneers.

I was shocked to learn that Brady was leaving his team of 20 years, especially because of his dominance with New England. It seemed extremely unlikely that he would be able to achieve that same success with a new team. He would be in a new conference, division and completely different environment.

However, Brady has thoroughly proved wrong my misgivings about him -. In fact, his performance this season has opened my eyes to the prospect of him truly being one of the best football players ever.

In number 12 spirit, he has led the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl for the first time since the 2002 season. It seems that against all odds, Brady prevailed in spectacular fashion with a new coach and team. His postseason has been even more impressive than his regular season with him beating both Drew Brees’ New Orleans Saints and Aaron Rogers’ Green Bay Packers to reach the Super Bowl.

Another merit to add to his ever-lengthening list of achievements is his disciplined lifestyle. He follows an extreme workout regimen and a strict diet, which is a testament to his passion and unparalleled work ethic. The effort he has put into his career is glaringly clear and explains why he is deserving of the title of being the best.

Brady’s disciplined lifestyle seems to have paid off as his multi-decade success has yet to cease. At 43 years-old, which is ancient in professional football, he is entering his tenth Super Bowl, six of which he has emerged victorious. With six Super Bowl rings, he holds more than any other player and just as many as any other franchise as a whole.

Touchdown Tom practically owns close to every Super Bowl record and will be adding to the records this year. Even as underdogs this year, I think it would be a huge mistake to underestimate the power of postseason Brady. Not only does he have home field advantage on his side but history too.

If he were able to emerge victorious this year, I think there would be no argument on whether Tom Brady is the greatest of all time or not.