By Greg A. Bedard, Globe Staff

PALM BEACH, Fla. - We all know Patriots coach Bill Belichick and new Buccaneers coach Greg Schiano have a relationship dating back a few years because Stephen Belichick attended Rutgers when Schiano was coach there.

It has been told over and over again.

But I did think Schiano's insight today on what kind of things they talk about -- generated via a question from Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times -- brought something new to the table.

"Schematically we’re different... just the game, in general, the approach, the thinking, your perspective of it. Dealing with players," Schiano said.

"He knows every player in the National Football League. I mean, he has it up here (tapping his head). I have books right now that I’m checking and reading. He’s got it in one book (tapping his head). That’s neat to just talk about players -- and he’s been doing it for so long -- because at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about, the players."

Maybe I'm still new around here, and I'm sure Schiano was exaggerating a little bit, but I didn't realize Belichick has that kind of recall on personnel around the league. I know he's beyond smart and has a terrific memory, but I didn't think it was to that extent. Interesting to me, at least.