Why would Belichick (allegedly) overpay Bielema and why would Kraft (again, allegedly) go along with the plan? The answer doesn’t share an explanation. But if the answer’s retelling is accurate, the Patriots might have worried that if they paid Bielema the normal Patriots bargain rate for a coach without NFL experience, it would have damaged relations with Arkansas, a program from which the Patriots recruit players (Patriots defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr., a Patriots fourth round pick in 2017, played for Bielema at Arkansas).

Oh yeah, Bill is terrified of having bad relations with Arkansas lol. Where would the dynasty be if we didn't have a good relationship with Arkansas.

This is nothing, so naturally we're never going to hear the end of it.