Chip Kelly (left) and Bill Belichick.

Patriots head coach Bill Belichick barely got off the bus Tuesday when he was asked about his connection with Eagles counterpart Chip Kelly.

Belichick was anything but at a loss for words.

"Chip's a New England guy so we've crossed paths from time to time," Belichick said. "We've kept in touch the last few years. I've always had a lot of respect for what he's done. What he did with the program out at Oregon. I've had several conversations since he's taken over here here. I just think he's a very solid coach and a very solid guy. I've always had a lot of respect for him. He does a great job with his team."

Belichick rejected inferences the Patriots offense is a variation of Kelly's up-tempo attack and praised his own coaching staff. But the Patriots' boss is looking forward to watching it the next few days.

"What he did at Oregon that was one thing," Belichick said. "We'll see how it all plays out here. But he's a very innovative, creative guy. He's got a great mind, he's smart and I think he'll take advantage of whatever resources he can. I'm sure he'll give us plenty of trouble."

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