"Sounds a lot like my 2001 team at the Patriots": Bill Belichick resonates with Jim Harbaugh as he reflects on his 1st year with the Chargers

The Los Angeles Chargers made a coaching change ahead of the 2024 season, bringing in 2023 Michigan Wolverines NCAA title-winning coach Jim Harbaugh at the helm. The move was made with hopes of improving upon their 5-12 record in 2023.

The move turned out to be good as the former Michigan coach turned around the program in his very first year, with the Chargers standing second in the AFC West with a 10-6 record. This meant they clinched a spot in the playoffs. They'll play the Las Vegas Raiders for their final regular season game.

Appearing on Monday's "Let's Go" podcast, North Carolina Tar Heels coach Bill Belichick found resonance between Harbaugh's first year with the Chargers to his 2001 New England Patriots team.

"Yeah, that sounds a lot like my 2001 team with the Patriots when Tom (Brady) took over at quarterback," Harbaugh said.

"We had 17 free agents come in, most of them veterans from other teams. They came in with the mindset, 'We just want to win.' They didn’t care about what they were getting paid or what their role was — they just wanted to be part of a winning organization."

He further added:

"Combined with some good young players like Brady, Ty Law, Lawyer Milloy at that time, and Tedy Bruschi, things really took off. We weren’t the best team in the league, but we played the best. It kind of looks like that’s what you guys are doing too.

"You’re just playing good. It might not always be exactly the way you want, but when it’s time and you need to make a play, you’ve got guys stepping up and making plays. That’s impressive."

Jim Harbaugh credits team and coaches upon making playoffs in his first year

After defeating the New England Patriots in Week 17, the LA Chargers confirmed themselves of a playoff spot with hopes of securing fifth seed in the AFC. Harbaugh, while excited, praised players and coaches for the results.

“With humble hearts, we move on to the next game. Just so proud of the team. All those that made it happen," Harbaugh told reporters after the game. "The players, the coaches. I mean, there was so much great play. I mean, our offense, our offense, great. Defense, great. I'm proud of our captains.

"Justin Herbert played a near-flawless game. Derwin James reached five and a half sacks, career high, but he does it every single game. Rashawn Slater and Brad Bozeman, I thought that was the best offensive line play we've had the entire season. The run block and the pass protection was so good, so good across the board. Khalil Mack, he's led us the entire season, and he had a great game."

What Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots achieved is not even remotely imaginable for the Chargers at the moment. However, Jim Harbaugh hopes to give his best, starting with making a deep run in the upcoming playoffs.