Am I the only one who remembers Bill Belichick as the failed coach of the Cleveland Browns? He was 36-44 there during 5 seasons, with only 1 playoff victory. Does anyone remember that at all?

Instead, I’m constantly subjected to these “Bill Belichick Solves Global Warming Problem — If It Exists” and “Bill Belichick Creates Artificial Heart” style paragraphs from Boston sportswriters, who treat the guy like he’s freaking Stephen Hawking.

For those who don’t know, Hawking is a theoretical physicist who could probably coach a team to a better than .500 record, even if he was working with Bernie Kosar and Vinny Testaverde at QB. Christ, it’s not like figuring out that black holes emit radiation. Remember, the Oakland Raiders made it to the AFC Championship Game and they had Jay Schroeder behind center. Let’s give Bill Belichick a run at the title with Joey Harrington and see how well he does.

Even as the Boston press corps beats up on Bill for videotaping crimes, we’re still constantly reminded of their past adoration - however unwarranted - for the guy. Joan Vennochi reminds us of what she said about Bill in 2002: “He is a leader, without the swagger, selfishness, and pomposity that so many men in business, politics, and sports embrace as an entitlement of their gender and position.” Jesus, how did gender get thrown into the mix? And Joan, he’s just a freaking football coach — he’s not in charge of turning around Chrysler or reviving the Argentinian economy.

Even while heading into a predictable condemnation of his actions, Jackie MacMullan feels the need to say that Belichick is “recognized as the best coach in the National Football League,” and “usually one step ahead of the pack.” She adds that the Patriots are now being called cheaters because of the actions of “the smartest coach in the NFL.”

Just pound us over the head with it. That Bill Belichick is really, really smart! How could he do this? He’s so smart! He should know better!

But you know, I’m not surprised by any of it. Because I never believed in the man you built up. There was no basis for the genius theory, and thus, there’s nothing to be surprised and shocked over. He’s just a coach who lucked out by losing Drew Bledsoe and meeting Tom Brady and having a nice group of players buy into the team concept. There has been talent on the defensive side of the ball throughout his tenure and he has had Brady. Replace the no name wideouts with some real talent (Moss, Stallworth, Welker) and poof, you’re ready for another Super Bowl run. Whether your coach is Bill Belichick or Cam Cameron, you’re ready.