New England Patriots #Deflateagate2015

[eaglescubs555]

Source tells Bob Kravitz that Patriots may have deflated footbal - 13 WTHR Indianapolis (http://www.wthr.com/story/27881499/source-tells-bob-kravitz-that-patriots-may-have-deflated-footballs-against-colts)


A source within the NFL tells wthr.com's Bob Kravitz that the league is investigating the possibility that the Patriots deflated footballs in their 45-7 win over the Colts Sunday night.

The source told Kravitz that officials took a ball out of play at one point and weighed it.

A deflated football could be easier to throw and catch in poor weather conditions than a properly inflated ball.

Kravitz was told that if a league investigation confirms deflated footballs, it would result in lost draft picks for the Patriots.

More to come on this story.

[GoHawks25]

Whether it is true or not it is just pathetic the Patriots are always Rumoured to cheat in some way.

[Nyfancam01]

... what a BRUTAL score lol

[exitmusicblue]

More on this here. Not so much sour grapes as possibly history repeating itself - http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/deflate-gate--report--patriots-being-investigated-for-deflated-footballs-062844133.html;_ylt=A0LEV1nDtbxUp.MAe_lx.9w4;_ylu=X3oDMTEzZXJzb2hlBGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMyBHZ0aWQDR0xJVEVNXzEEc2VjA3Ny

[exitmusicblue]

Whether it is true or not it is just pathetic the Patriots are always Rumoured to cheat in some way.

My already offered two cents: Sick and tired of this sh*t. They need to investigate and go further than taking away a few draft picks if the allegations are found to be true. Root out everyone who knew of this from the coach on down to the players and shame/asterisk everyone complicit.

Would the score have been 35-7? 21-7? 7-21? Football is a game of momentum. We'll never know in the event the allegations are proven true. Let's just say we needn't have the greatest faith in the Pats at this point.

[jeg2315]

The Patriots are masters of skirting the rules and finding loopholes. The situation is not really surprising whether true or untrue, to be honest. I'll wait to see the defensive, reactionary responses by fans.

That said, they better beat the Seahawks.

[RandyMarsh]

Losers. Haters. I'm not even a Pats fan. But you all sound like jealous babies. Waaaaaaaa.

So does this mean Luck has trouble throwing easier-to-throw balls?

IF this is true, the score would not have been different. I have also heard this about Rodgers and Brees. When they play at home, they slightly deflate the balls to throw better. This is nothing new.

[exitmusicblue]

Losers. Haters. I'm not even a Pats fan. But you all sound like jealous babies. Waaaaaaaa.

So does this mean Luck has trouble throwing easier-to-throw balls?

IF this is true, the score would not have been different. I have also heard this about Rodgers and Brees. When they play at home, they slightly deflate the balls to throw better. This is nothing new.

Read article(s). Read BO Colts-Pats thread. Sleep, wake up to a whole new world. 'cause chances are it's gonna be real hoppin' by morning.

[ckcardz]

Losers. Haters. I'm not even a Pats fan. But you all sound like jealous babies. Waaaaaaaa.

So does this mean Luck has trouble throwing easier-to-throw balls?

IF this is true, the score would not have been different. I have also heard this about Rodgers and Brees. When they play at home, they slightly deflate the balls to throw better. This is nothing new.

The pats and colts each have their own balls on offense. The colts arent using the same(if true) deflated balls the pats are using

[ejs23]

if there's any truth to this and the NFL doesn't take serious action (and they won't).... then it's just becoming one big farce.

[88horsepower]

if there's any truth to this and the NFL doesn't take serious action (and they won't).... then it's just becoming one big farce.

After the scandal I'm 2007, when Goodell destroyed the evidence, it indicated to me that the league wasn't fully committed to anything but protecting the shield. If there's any real truth to this, I doubt Goodell will truly do anything about this since it would give the impression that a fraudulent team was represented in the Super Bowl. The accusation alone of this alleged incident already did the damage. The public will choose to believe the Patriots cheated again.

I can already see how this plays out if the Patriots lose to Seattle . The public will claim the Patriots lost because they couldn't beat the Hawks straight up. If they beat the Hawks people will say they shouldn't have been there in the first place.

[Wolves4Life]

Correct me if I am wrong. Don't NFL regulate the balls and don't both sides use the same balls? This isn't 10 year olds, You don't bring your own footballs from home.

[adamt326]

That deflated ball story originated from a colts beat writer because the NFL took a ball and weighed it during the game (like they do every game). But whether the report has any substance or not, he's already convinced enough people that the "Cheatriots" are up to their old ways. It's more likely the result of a change in temperature or a sad attempt to make Colts fans forget about getting stomped.

[ninjacookies]

I'm going to refrain commenting until more facts come out. But if the story is officially substantiated, then those are some quite low-brow antics.

[Kingofkings1281]

Lol at this "report". The refs and ball attendants are in charge of the footballs that get put into play. There are a lot of measures taken by the league to make sure this doesn't happen. Even if this has some truth to it "Oh no! One of the balls was 15 ounces!? This is surely the difference maker in the game!"

It doesn't really matter. This is going to he blown out of proportion by every one to the point that it's "Oh noez, the cheatriots up to their old ways! Colts would have won!" Good times.

[Jedi1823]

After the scandal I'm 2007, when Goodell destroyed the evidence, it indicated to me that the league wasn't fully committed to anything but protecting the shield. If there's any real truth to this, I doubt Goodell will truly do anything about this since it would give the impression that a fraudulent team was represented in the Super Bowl. The accusation alone of this alleged incident already did the damage. The public will choose to believe the Patriots cheated again.

With Spygate, my philosophy has always been "Show me a team in the NFL that doesn't do that, and I'll show you a team that doesn't exist." The difference with this was that Eric Mangini pitched a fit, it got to the public, and people got mad.

[Kingofkings1281]

With Spygate, my philosophy has always been "Show me a team in the NFL that doesn't do that, and I'll show you a team that doesn't exist." The difference with this was that Eric Mangini pitched a fit, it got to the public, and people got mad.

Don't try to be logical. It's not going to work on here.

[corndog]

It wouldn't surprise me one bit - it's the Patriot way.

[FanboyOfNone]

People are looking for reasons to hate the Patriots. Again.

45-7 win in a Conference Championship game. That's all I need to hear. Think the Pats could've subbed in the Bucs for the second half and still won soundly.

[Kingofkings1281]

It wouldn't surprise me one bit - it's the Patriot way.

See? No point in being logical as evidenced by this post. There's tons more just like him that will blindly believe anything negative mentioned about the Patriots because they dislike them so strongly and are tired of seeing them consistently win games.

I'm sure if they win the Super Bowl a report about the Patriots having their cleats tied "extra tight" will put an asterisk next to the championship. :rolleyes:

[corndog]

See? No point in being logical as evidenced by this post. There's tons more just like him that will blindly believe anything negative mentioned about the Patriots because they dislike them so strongly and are tired of seeing them consistently win games.

I'm sure if they win the Super Bowl a report about the Patriots having their cleats tied "extra tight" will put an asterisk next to the championship. :rolleyes:

^^^Head in the sand till the end.^^^

[Kingofkings1281]

^^^Head in the sand till the end.^^^

^^^Typical Patriots "hater" that refuses to acknowledge facts.^^^

Although I'm glad you people have something to get angry about again other than your teams not making it to the Super Bowl.

[bigzig]

That deflated ball story originated from a colts beat writer because the NFL took a ball and weighed it during the game (like they do every game). But whether the report has any substance or not, he's already convinced enough people that the "Cheatriots" are up to their old ways. It's more likely the result of a change in temperature or a sad attempt to make Colts fans forget about getting stomped.


Kravitz is a pretty straight shooter when it comes to the Colts. He won't just make up excuses or try to rile fans up for the hell of it. He's pretty good at checking his resources before putting something in print.

I'll refrain from commenting more until more info comes out, but Kravitz doesn't just make stuff up.

[RedSoxFan28]

OMGZ!!! A deflated foootball????!!1 CHEATERS!!! CHEATERS!!!! :rolleyes:

[addicted36]

Use logic here I know its lacking for some of you but let me try

If they used deflated balls wouldnt the Colts have had the same advantage? I remember them stopping the game when the Colts had the ball to replace it

Weather played a factor, which when a ball is slightly deflated helps the QB. Again it would help both teams

The Colts lost by more then 30 points, would a inflated football change that?

This is spin by the NFL to control the message that Andrew Luck is great and an excuse for that game yesterday nothing more. I hate the Patriots but like last weeks cheating BS story when they didnt cheat, like the argument that Dez caught a football he didnt, people are making up excuses why one team lost when the truth is not these things. Its spin control and you should see it for what it is

I guarentee in two weeks when the Patriots beat the Seahawks there will be more false stories about some other way they cheated to try and rob them of a clean victory

[trixstar]

The NFL has confirmed the investigation. No need to go after Kravitz for doing his job and no need to say "haters".

The existence of the investigation, as initially reported by Bob Kravitz of WTHR-TV in Indianapolis, suggests that the referee failed to properly check the specifications of the balls, the referee didn’t properly secure the balls before they were given to the ball attendant, or something happened to the balls after they were given to the ball attendant.

League confirms ball-deflation investigation | ProFootballTalk (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/01/19/league-confirms-ball-deflation-investigation/)

Has nothing to do with the outcome f the game as Kravitz said last night NE killed Indy and it wasn't because of deflated balls.

[bigzig]

Use logic here I know its lacking for some of you but let me try

If they used deflated balls wouldnt the Colts have had the same advantage? I remember them stopping the game when the Colts had the ball to replace it

Weather played a factor, which when a ball is slightly deflated helps the QB. Again it would help both teams

The Colts lost by more then 30 points, would a inflated football change that?

This is spin by the NFL to control the message that Andrew Luck is great and an excuse for that game yesterday nothing more. I hate the Patriots but like last weeks cheating BS story when they didnt cheat, like the argument that Dez caught a football he didnt, people are making up excuses why one team lost when the truth is not these things. Its spin control and you should see it for what it is

I guarentee in two weeks when the Patriots beat the Seahawks there will be more false stories about some other way they cheated to try and rob them of a clean victory

No one is using it as an excuse for the blowout or to protect Luck. Had it been a close game, then maybe it would've "changed the outcome". But a slight advantage doesn't excuse an entire team not showing up.

[BostonNut]

I guess BeliCHEAT wanted the footballs to weigh less to put less strain on Blount's arms as he was touting the rock 30 times.

I mean...it's not like BeliCHEAT'S game plan was to throw the ball 60 times again...

Use your brains people. The Pats were going to run, run, run, run, and run some more. That was their game plan. MEANWHILE...Indy's game plan was for Luck to win the game with his arm. EVERYONE KNEW THOSE WERE THE TWO GAME PLAN'S COMING IN TO THE GAME!!!

But yes...BeliCHEAT intentionally let air out of the balls in order to help Dandy Andy...

My God....

Can the Pats ever win a game without SOMEBODY crying???

[ssbledsoe]

The NFL has confirmed the investigation. No need to go after Kravitz for doing his job and no need to say "haters".



League confirms ball-deflation investigation | ProFootballTalk (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/01/19/league-confirms-ball-deflation-investigation/)

Has nothing to do with the outcome f the game as Kravitz said last night NE killed Indy and it wasn't because of deflated balls.

Said it in the other thread: it'd be great if all the facts of the story could come together before accusations of "cheating" we're lobbed out.

Referee didn't check or secure the balls is code for the referee didn't do his job and is incompetent. Because he's incompetent, the entire calling of the game was suspect. See how easy it is to throw out baseless accusations that have larger implications associated with them?

[ssbledsoe]

I guess BeliCHEAT wanted the footballs to weigh less to put less strain on Blount's arms as he was touting the rock 30 times.

I mean...it's not like BeliCHEAT'S game plan was to throw the ball 60 times again...

Use your brains people. The Pats were going to run, run, run, run, and run some more. That was their game plan. MEANWHILE...Indy's game plan was for Luck to win the game with his arm. EVERYONE KNEW THOSE WERE THE TWO GAME PLAN'S COMING IN TO THE GAME!!!

But yes...BeliCHEAT intentionally let air out of the balls in order to help Dandy Andy...

My God....

While I agree that letting air out of the balls and Belichick being behind it is absurd, you can't ignore the fact that each team provides their own balls for the game. The balls the Pats were using wouldn't be thrown by Luck.
Either way, it goes back to my above point: this "story" isn't close to being complete and is a bush league tactic by Kravitz to detract from the utter ass whipping last night.

[wheeler281]

If anyone think this somehow contributed to the route they need their head examined. Colts didn't belong. They caught the right path to the championship is all. For goodness sakes it was 45-7

[BostonNut]

This is not true. Do you remember the point in the game where everyone was standing around for five minutes or so and Simms and Nantz said something about a kicker ball being on the field?

The Colts had the ball at that time and they threw in a ball from the Pats sideline. All teams have the same balls.

(Ball jokes will never get old in this thread.)

While I agree that letting air out of the balls and Belichick being behind it is absurd, you can't ignore the fact that each team provides their own balls for the game. The balls the Pats were using wouldn't be thrown by Luck.
Either way, it goes back to my above point: this "story" isn't close to being complete and is a bush league tactic by Kravitz to detract from the utter ass whipping last night.

[jlzinck]

Sources tell jlzinck that the Patriots used small drones to injure Richard Sherman during the game. Roger Goodell has already destroyed the evidence.

Sources are also telling jlzinck that Bob Kraft is being forced to sell the Patriots for having a gigolo in his private box and having said gigolo shown on National TV.

The Super Bowl is cancelled giving the Seahawks the win by forfeit.

God Bless

[IndyKMB]

If true, pathetic, and the adage that "well, other teams do it so what's the big deal?" is ridiculous. I mean, is it really necessary (if true) to do things like this?

But, I'll say it .... who cares.

NE absolutely pounded Indy in every aspect of the game. Period.
We knew the key would be stopping the run. Make Brady throw downfield in the poor conditions on 3rd and long. But, when said QB is running 3 yard QB sneaks, that about sums up the day.

Deflated balls, over-inflated balls, ping pong balls...the outcome will be the same. Luck and the Colts were simply in the AFC title game too early and NE was and still is the team that will win this matchup 18 out of 20 times. (I give Indy 2 chances to win at home :) )

So ... I'm hoping this garbage goes away real quick so the focus can be on what should be a great SB.

[AlabamaSlamma]

If true, pathetic, and the adage that "well, other teams do it so what's the big deal?" is ridiculous. I mean, is it really necessary (if true) to do things like this?

But, I'll say it .... who cares.

NE absolutely pounded Indy in every aspect of the game. Period.
We knew the key would be stopping the run. Make Brady throw downfield in the poor conditions on 3rd and long. But, when said QB is running 3 yard QB sneaks, that about sums up the day.

Deflated balls, over-inflated balls, ping pong balls...the outcome will be the same. Luck and the Colts were simply in the AFC title game too early and NE was and still is the team that will win this matchup 18 out of 20 times. (I give Indy 2 chances to win at home :) )

So ... I'm hoping this garbage goes away real quick so the focus can be on what should be a great SB.

/nods in agreement

[corndog]

Use logic here I know its lacking for some of you but let me try

If they used deflated balls wouldnt the Colts have had the same advantage? I remember them stopping the game when the Colts had the ball to replace it

Weather played a factor, which when a ball is slightly deflated helps the QB. Again it would help both teams

The Colts lost by more then 30 points, would a inflated football change that?



Here is a little logical FYI: In the NFL, each team brings 12 Wilson footballs to the game and uses its own. Meaning, the Patriots' offense uses one set of footballs and those are taken off the field when possession shifts. The referees inspect all of the balls about 2 hours before game time and maintain possession of them until the game begins. Once the game begins, the teams control the balls.

In simple terms, each offense uses there own balls.

[BostonNut]

Can you please post where you found this?

When the Colts had possession when they were taking the kicking ball off the field they threw in a ball from the Pats sideline. That makes no sense if each team has it's own set of balls.

Here is a little logical FYI: In the NFL, each team brings 12 Wilson footballs to the game and uses its own. Meaning, the Patriots' offense uses one set of footballs and those are taken off the field when possession shifts. The referees inspect all of the balls about 2 hours before game time and maintain possession of them until the game begins. Once the game begins, the teams control the balls.

In simple terms, each offense uses there own balls.

[trixstar]

Can you please post where you found this?

When the Colts had possession when they were taking the kicking ball off the field they threw in a ball from the Pats sideline. That makes no sense if each team has it's own set of balls.

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/deflating-feeling--report-puts-patriots-on-defensive-over-footballs--culture-since-spygate-scandal-080638511.html

5th paragraph

[BostonNut]

Thanks. Interesting. I guess all balls are kept on the home team sideline then? How do they know whose are whose?

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/deflating-feeling--report-puts-patriots-on-defensive-over-footballs--culture-since-spygate-scandal-080638511.html

5th paragraph

[wheeler281]

Here is a little logical FYI: In the NFL, each team brings 12 Wilson footballs to the game and uses its own. Meaning, the Patriots' offense uses one set of footballs and those are taken off the field when possession shifts. The referees inspect all of the balls about 2 hours before game time and maintain possession of them until the game begins. Once the game begins, the teams control the balls.

In simple terms, each offense uses there own balls.


edit nm they must have change the rules at some point

It use to be the home team supplied the balls and they were checked by the head ref before the game

[IndySportsCards]

The Colts got beat. End of.

[ManInTheMirror]

Use logic here I know its lacking for some of you but let me try
http://failbluedot.com/images/everyone_is_stupid.jpg

[corndog]

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/deflating-feeling--report-puts-patriots-on-defensive-over-footballs--culture-since-spygate-scandal-080638511.html

5th paragraph

That is it^^^

I would surmise that Dan Wetzel knows what he's talking about.

To be fair, I did find this in the NFL Rulebook which doesn't specifically mention each team controlling their own balls (unless I didn't read it right):

http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/rulebook/pdfs/5_2013_Ball.pdf

[rats60]

Can the Pats ever win a game without SOMEBODY crying???

Can the Patriots ever when a game without cheating? They had the better team, why do they need to cheat? This isn't a story by a local writer. This isn't even a story on ESPN. This is being carried on the national news. This isn't someone crying about a loss.

The balls are supposed to weigh 14 .5 lbs, but weighed 13.5. The NFL knows what happened, otherwise they would have buried the story. Keep burying your head in the sand.

[IndySportsCards]

I know I control my own balls. Except when my wife keeps them in a jar, but outside of that, they're all mine! Mine I tell you, MINE MINE MINE!

[preakness]

Correct me if I am wrong. Don't NFL regulate the balls and don't both sides use the same balls? This isn't 10 year olds, You don't bring your own footballs from home.

not sure about NFL but in college and high school the offense use their own balls and those guys aren't ten year-olds

[preakness]

balls don't weight 14 pounds

it's about the pressure in the balls

[BostonNut]

If this were the case why didn't Walt Anderson bring this up BEFORE THE GAME as he was checking the balls?

Can the Patriots ever when a game without cheating? They had the better team, why do they need to cheat? This isn't a story by a local writer. This isn't even a story on ESPN. This is being carried on the national news. This isn't someone crying about a loss.

The balls are supposed to weigh 14 .5 lbs, but weighed 13.5. The NFL knows what happened, otherwise they would have buried the story. Keep burying your head in the sand.

[lobo_hacker]

With Spygate, my philosophy has always been "Show me a team in the NFL that doesn't do that, and I'll show you a team that doesn't exist." The difference with this was that Eric Mangini pitched a fit, it got to the public, and people got mad.

-Not defending any violation of the rules by the Patriots, but to rail against them as 'cheaters' when every other team in the league gets away with violations every week is hypocritical weaksauce. It isn't a defence of cheating, it's more of a "shut up and play" comment.

lobo_hacker, glad the Pats won without me having to watch them this time

[corndog]

Can the Patriots ever when a game without cheating? They had the better team, why do they need to cheat? This isn't a story by a local writer. This isn't even a story on ESPN. This is being carried on the national news. This isn't someone crying about a loss.

The balls are supposed to weigh 14 .5 lbs, but weighed 13.5. The NFL knows what happened, otherwise they would have buried the story. Keep burying your head in the sand.

No wonder Peyton is having a rough time throwing the deep ball... :eek:

[ernieren]

See? No point in being logical as evidenced by this post. There's tons more just like him that will blindly believe anything negative mentioned about the Patriots because they dislike them so strongly and are tired of seeing them consistently win games.

I'm sure if they win the Super Bowl a report about the Patriots having their cleats tied "extra tight" will put an asterisk next to the championship. :rolleyes:

I love this post. But it's true people hate the Patriots because they win every year. Go find some posts from the start of this year when the Patriots looked bad and how people were busting on them . Now they make it back to the Superbowl and look what happens. You get an upset hack beat writer saying he saw a ball get taken off the field and weighed so the Patriots are deflating balls. How do we even know that was a Patriots ball what if it were a Colts ball? Just seems like people want to make the Patriots look like cheaters. You also realize after the 1st quarter almost all the ball would have been used by both sides. They don't use Patriots ball for them only both sides play with the same balls . Just depends on what side the play ends on.

[Samiamryan]

http://i887.photobucket.com/albums/ac79/samiamryan/GIFs/tumblr_m8hwwidcSs1r3f9ymo2_250_zps4e0ce775.gif (http://s887.photobucket.com/user/samiamryan/media/GIFs/tumblr_m8hwwidcSs1r3f9ymo2_250_zps4e0ce775.gif.html)

[BostonNut]

I'm a moved or deleted image?

Meh...I've been called worse.

Patriot Fans be like....

http://i887.photobucket.com/albums/ac79/samiamryan/GIFs/th_zps2e231ce6.jpg (http://s887.photobucket.com/user/samiamryan/media/GIFs/th_zps2e231ce6.jpg.html)

[Andrew Jones]

I love this post. But it's true people hate the Patriots because they win every year. Go find some posts from the start of this year when the Patriots looked bad and how people were busting on them . Now they make it back to the Superbowl and look what happens. You get an upset hack beat writer saying he saw a ball get taken off the field and weighed so the Patriots are deflating balls. How do we even know that was a Patriots ball what if it were a Colts ball? Just seems like people want to make the Patriots look like cheaters. You also realize after the 1st quarter almost all the ball would have been used by both sides. They don't use Patriots ball for them only both sides play with the same balls . Just depends on what side the play ends on.

Posting without reading?

[BostonNut]

BAHAHAHA....troll fail. :coffee:

http://i887.photobucket.com/albums/ac79/samiamryan/GIFs/tumblr_m8hwwidcSs1r3f9ymo2_250_zps4e0ce775.gif (http://s887.photobucket.com/user/samiamryan/media/GIFs/tumblr_m8hwwidcSs1r3f9ymo2_250_zps4e0ce775.gif.html)

[ernieren]

Posting without reading?

No i read the posts and i see where someone brings up the yahoo post . But then read the NFL RULES not one portion of it says each team uses its own balls. So again it's a hack beat writer that reported this and the NFL has to look into it . No way during the game with how players throw a ball everywhere that they stay on one side or the other. Also players from the defensive side handle the ball as well so they would have said something as well. Just wait till the actual truth comes out and it says no issues were found.

[trixstar]

No i read the posts and i see where someone brings up the yahoo post . But then read the NFL RULES not one portion of it says each team uses its own balls. So again it's a hack beat writer that reported this and the NFL has to look into it . No way during the game with how players throw a ball everywhere that they stay on one side or the other. Also players from the defensive side handle the ball as well so they would have said something as well. Just wait till the actual truth comes out and it says no issues were found.


This is the official rule I guess, at least from what I found

NFL Rules Digest: Ball (http://www.nfl.com/rulebook/ball)

Ball

The home club shall have 36 balls for outdoor games and 24 for indoor games available for testing with a pressure gauge by the referee two hours prior to the starting time of the game to meet with League requirements. Twelve (12) new footballs, sealed in a special box and shipped by the manufacturer, will be opened in the officials’ locker room two hours prior to the starting time of the game. These balls are to be specially marked with the letter "k" and used exclusively for the kicking game.


Then i found this

http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/rulebook/pdfs/5_2013_Ball.pdf

Section 2
BALL SUPPLY
Each team will make 12 primary balls available for testing by the Referee two hours and 15 minutes prior to the starting time of the game to meet League requirements. The home team will also make 12 backup balls available for testing in all
stadiums. In addition, the visitors, at their discretion, may bring 12 backup balls to be tested by the Referee for games
held in outdoor stadiums. For all games, eight new footballs, sealed in a special box and shipped by the manufacturer to
the Referee, will be opened in the officials’ locker room two hours and 15 minutes prior to the starting time of the game.
These balls are to be specially marked by the Referee and used exclusively for the kicking game.
In the event a home team ball does not conform to specifications, or its supply is exhausted, the Referee shall secure a proper
ball from the visitors and, failing that, use the best available ball. Any such circumstances must be reported to the
Commissioner.
In case of rain or a wet, muddy, or slippery field, a playable ball shall be used at the request of t
he offensive team’s center.
The Game Clock shall not stop for such action (unless undue delay occurs).
Note: It is the responsibility of the home team to furnish playable balls at all times by attendants from either side of the playing

He took it right from the rules instead of "hack writing"

[BostonNut]

Okay...so both teams use the home team's balls unless the supply is exhausted which they then go to the visiting team's balls.

Got it.

So:

1.) How did this get by Walt Anderson as he was checking them prior to kickoff?

2.) Why didn't the Colts complain during the game?

[ssbledsoe]

This is the official rule I guess, at least from what I found

NFL Rules Digest: Ball (http://www.nfl.com/rulebook/ball)



Then i found this

http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/rulebook/pdfs/5_2013_Ball.pdf



He took it right from the rules instead of "hack writing"

So, what we've learned is that both teams were using the same balls? So, if there is a proven deflation, both teams were at the same dis/advantage???

[trixstar]

Okay...so both teams use the home team's balls unless the supply is exhausted which they then go to the visiting team's balls.

Got it.

So:

1.) How did this get by Walt Anderson as he was checking them prior to kickoff?

2.) Why didn't the Colts complain during the game?

I don't get paid enough to figure these things out lol

[ssbledsoe]

Okay...so both teams use the home team's balls unless the supply is exhausted which they then go to the visiting team's balls.

Got it.

So:

1.) How did this get by Walt Anderson as he was checking them prior to kickoff?

2.) Why didn't the Colts complain during the game?

Simple answer to both questions: it doesn't matter, Kravitz has done his "job" by creating excuses for the Colts sh!t show football performance and created a nice distraction for the Pats headed into the Super Bowl.

For those that don't live in the Indy market, Bob Kravitz isn't a "beat writer", he's a columnist. He's also known to create controversy however he can to get readers and clicks. He's an enormous d-bag and arrogant prick. He was Peyton's "mouthpiece" to the media when Peyton was in town, and always leaked the stories that built up media buzz.

[Andrew Jones]

"Each team will make 12 primary balls available for testing by the Referee two hours and 15 minutes prior to the starting time of the game to meet League requirements."

Note: Each team. 12 balls per team so NE has 12 balls they use, Indy has 12 they use. In terms of why the referee didn't catch it, I'm guessing what the NFL is investigating is whether NE deflated their 12 balls after the referee's pre-game inspection.

[TASS]

The only deflated balls anyone should be commenting on today should be those of Andrew Luck and his teammates! ;)

[corndog]

So, what we've learned is that both teams were using the same balls? So, if there is a proven deflation, both teams were at the same dis/advantage???

That's the confusing part. When you read the rule, it doesn't really make sense for each team to provide 12 balls if they are just going to get all mixed up anyway. Also, it says that the home team is to keep the balls supplied for the refs from either side of the field. :confused:

In the rain, would you want an employee of the home team throwing in "dried off" footballs when you are on offense and the visiting team?

[BostonNut]

What would be the point of the refs inspecting the balls if they leave time for teams to tamper with them after? :confused::confused::confused:

"Each team will make 12 primary balls available for testing by the Referee two hours and 15 minutes prior to the starting time of the game to meet League requirements."

Note: Each team. 12 balls per team so NE has 12 balls they use, Indy has 12 they use. In terms of why the referee didn't catch it, I'm guessing what the NFL is investigating is whether NE deflated their 12 balls after the referee's pre-game inspection.

[Andrew Jones]

What would be the point of the refs inspecting the balls if they leave time for teams to tamper with them after? :confused::confused::confused:

Well you can't expect the ball to be tested before each play. I think the assumption is the balls are cleared right before kickoff and then neither team will mess with them after that. Like many NFL rules, it works on the honor system. But if a team were to alter them during the game or at halftime ....

It will be interesting to see if anything comes of this. I'm a huge Brady fan and was rooting for NE so it isn't like I have some axe to grind here. But to write this off as a "hack" writer with a vendetta or just outright dismiss it is pretty weak IMO. This isn't the first time a team has been accused of altering the air pressure in the footballs. It's a legitimate tactic.

[Tones]

The only deflated balls anyone should be commenting on today should be those of Andrew Luck and his teammates! ;)
http://soy.impresionesaerea.netdna-cdn.com/images/Consulta/GIFs/spiderman_boss.gif

[BostonNut]

So this Lenny Kravitz guy just lost any accountability with me:

It Is What It Is » Tom Brady on report of Patriots tampering with game balls: ‘Ridiculous’ (http://itiswhatitis.weei.com/sports/newengland/football/patriots/2015/01/19/tom-brady-on-report-of-patriots-tampering-with-game-balls-ridiculous/)

Added Kravitz: “When I heard it, I thought, man, that’s outlandish, do I really want to go with this? And then I thought, well, everybody thought the idea of them taping practice was outlandish. So, at the end, it’s a source that I trust implicitly, and I’ve never been steered wrong before.”

The Patriots never taped any practice nor were punished for doing so. This guy seems like a complete and utter clown....

This should pretty much put a nail in the coffin on this.

[Samiamryan]

BAHAHAHA....troll fail. :coffee:

Your right. I failed and Im still not the dumbest guy in this thread ;)

[BostonNut]

Nope...that would be me.

Your right. I failed and Im still not the dumbest guy in this thread ;)

[indyguy]

So this Lenny Kravitz guy just lost any accountability with me:

It Is What It Is » Tom Brady on report of Patriots tampering with game balls: ‘Ridiculous’ (http://itiswhatitis.weei.com/sports/newengland/football/patriots/2015/01/19/tom-brady-on-report-of-patriots-tampering-with-game-balls-ridiculous/)

Added Kravitz: “When I heard it, I thought, man, that’s outlandish, do I really want to go with this? And then I thought, well, everybody thought the idea of them taping practice was outlandish. So, at the end, it’s a source that I trust implicitly, and I’ve never been steered wrong before.”

The Patriots never taped any practice nor were punished for doing so. This guy seems like a complete and utter clown....

This should pretty much put a nail in the coffin on this.

How so? Kravitz isn't the one doing the investigation, the NFL is. There was obviously a reason for it.

Is it the reason the Colts lost? No. Nobody (relevant or sane) has stated it is.

[indyguy]

Your right. I failed and Im still not the dumbest guy in this thread ;)

"You're" getting closer though! :)!

[BostonNut]

Kravitz stated the Patriots filmed practices.

This is very, very wrong and clearly shows he has no idea what he is talking about.

Why should anyone believe this story. So his "source" told him the NFL was upset about the pressure of one football so he runs with a cheating scandal story?

How so? Kravitz isn't the one doing the investigation, the NFL is. There was obviously a reason for it.

Is it the reason the Colts lost? No. Nobody (relevant or sane) has stated it is.

[88horsepower]

There seems to be multiple camps here on the forum.

Patriots apologists trying to do everything they can to call this story a farce made up by haters and Colts fans.

Colts fans who readily admit that their team was beat regardless of the deflate-gate story, but are disappointed in the allegations.

Patriots haters who are taking this story and running with it even though the story just broke.

[BostonNut]

You forgot this one:

Patriots fans who are sick and tired of their team being dragged through the mud after every single playoff win.

There seems to be multiple camps here on the forum.

Patriots apologists trying to do everything they can to call this story a farce made up by haters and Colts fans.

Colts fans who readily admit that their team was beat regardless of the deflate-gate story, but are disappointed in the allegations.

Patriots haters who are taking this story and running with it even though the story just broke.

[ssbledsoe]

That's the confusing part. When you read the rule, it doesn't really make sense for each team to provide 12 balls if they are just going to get all mixed up anyway. Also, it says that the home team is to keep the balls supplied for the refs from either side of the field. :confused:

In the rain, would you want an employee of the home team throwing in "dried off" footballs when you are on offense and the visiting team?

The only "sense" I can make out of this story is that Kravitz threw this "story" out with incomplete facts and viewed it as an opportunity to distract a team he doesn't like. It's crappy "reporting" and bush league.
I'm all for reading the final report, but just like any "more to come" news there will be that belligerent group that refuses to look at this as the Patriots cheated regardless of what further evidence may or may not arise.

Well you can't expect the ball to be tested before each play. I think the assumption is the balls are cleared right before kickoff and then neither team will mess with them after that. Like many NFL rules, it works on the honor system. But if a team were to alter them during the game or at halftime ....

It will be interesting to see if anything comes of this. I'm a huge Brady fan and was rooting for NE so it isn't like I have some axe to grind here. But to write this off as a "hack" writer with a vendetta or just outright dismiss it is pretty weak IMO. This isn't the first time a team has been accused of altering the air pressure in the footballs. It's a legitimate tactic.

Kravitz has made his name in Indianapolis as a columnist by grinding plenty of axes. He also "protects" those that feed him info. Calling him a "hack" might be a bit much, but then again there are plenty of Pats fans that would call a few Boston columnists hacks *cough* Shaughnessy *cough*...

[MLH]

So am I correct in assuming that the balls would have to be deflated on th sideline during the game? Or was there opportunity to do it beforehand?

[88horsepower]

You forgot this one:

Patriots fans who are sick and tired of their team being dragged through the mud after every single playoff win.

Absolutely, and I can't blame you for feeling that way.

Just curious, what will your particular stance be should the allegations prove to be true?

[indyguy]

Kravitz stated the Patriots filmed practices.

This is very, very wrong and clearly shows he has no idea what he is talking about.

Why should anyone believe this story. So his "source" told him the NFL was upset about the pressure of one football so he runs with a cheating scandal story?

I can't stand Kravitz, but normally, he would have an article out about how bad the Colts sucked and that would be that.

He's a blowhard, but I don't believe him to be a liar.

The game was basically over when Cribbs muffed the punt and gave New England the short field and the momentum.

[ssbledsoe]

There seems to be multiple camps here on the forum.

Patriots apologists trying to do everything they can to call this story a farce made up by haters and Colts fans.

Colts fans who readily admit that their team was beat regardless of the deflate-gate story, but are disappointed in the allegations.

Patriots haters who are taking this story and running with it even though the story just broke.

I wouldn't call it a farce. The story is certainly worth reporting, but reporting it with half information and a TMZ-esque headline that implies the Pats cheated without any confirmation is bush league and wreaks of sour grapes.

[BostonNut]

Then shame on New England and fine them and punish them to the maximum extent.

Why would I feel anything other than that?

I do not work for the Patriots, nor does Bob Kraft pay me. I have every right to be critical of the team I like to see win.

Absolutely, and I can't blame you for feeling that way.

Just curious, what will your particular stance be should the allegations prove to be true?

[ssbledsoe]

Absolutely, and I can't blame you for feeling that way.

Just curious, what will your particular stance be should the allegations prove to be true?

If the Pats were deflating balls on the sideline, whoever was doing it should get fired, and I'd fire anyone who told the ball boy to do so. Even BB. As a Pats fan, it's really tiring and ridiculous to have the team you cheer for repeatedly questioned because of questionable practices.

[MLH]

Absolutely, and I can't blame you for feeling that way.

Just curious, what will your particular stance be should the allegations prove to be true?

I will answer for myself to say that I will be sick of this crap and it might be time to clean house for the Pats. Winning means nothing if your team is always the butt of a joke, and there are asterisks next to every accomplishment.

[mgugs46]

It's a non story. The Patriots would have won by 20 if they were forced to throw shotputs.

[addicted36]

No one is using it as an excuse for the blowout or to protect Luck. Had it been a close game, then maybe it would've "changed the outcome". But a slight advantage doesn't excuse an entire team not showing up.

Didn't mean you, or anyone on this forum. I meant its why the stories got legs.

[preakness]

Maybe got deflated from gronk spiking it or Blount fall on it while diving into end zone

[indyguy]

Didn't mean you, or anyone on this forum. I meant its why the stories got legs.

That's just it, Kravitz isn't about protecting anyone. He blames everyone.

[addicted36]

Okay...so both teams use the home team's balls unless the supply is exhausted which they then go to the visiting team's balls.

Got it.

So:

1.) How did this get by Walt Anderson as he was checking them prior to kickoff?

2.) Why didn't the Colts complain during the game?

3.) Why wouldn't the cheating Patriots air up the Colts balls over inflating them before giving them to Luck and really hurt him if they were trying to cheat?

4.) With so many players touching the balls why isn't the players themselves, hell it could be a punter or a kicker or a QB or anyone who would have noticed this not made a stink about it yesterday and the story only come out after the blowout?

5.) Since they only have to be aired up and checked 2 hours before a game what's to stop them from deflating them after being checked? What's to stop the Colts from doing that in that bad weather game themselves? Who knows if this happens all the time or some of the time?

6.) When are people actually going to understand what this is really all about?

My friends all of this and last weeks story is in the news because of Spygate. People are still pissed off that the NFL covered up and destroyed evidence to protect the Patriots legacy. The bad news is that because of that we will never hear the end of stories saying the Patriots are cheaters. Instead we get to hear about made up, illogical things on how they cheated. On the side of coverup by coming out with stupid non stories like this it effectively puts into question someone gripping about Spygate, if the Patriots didn't cheat by under inflating the footballs then they must not have illegally taped private practices before past Superbowls.

One does not mean anything to the other.

The Patriots cheated and won Superbowls because they cheated. They didn't cheat yesterday and they didn't cheat the week before. One doesn't cancel out the other. Patriots fans know how I feel, and are probably surprised that I'm saying they didn't cheat yesterday or the week before.

The simple minded folks won't understand any of this but the more educated people will understand because its the truth. The NFL and it's media is using brainwashing and the goal here is for people like you and I to forget about Spygate, make cheating so redic that people when they hear about it brush it off and make it seem like nonsense.

This is cheating

Goodell: Destroying Spygate tapes was 'right thing to do' - NFL - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3244687)
http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3225539

This is not

http://storage.wellandtribune.ca/v1/dynamic_resize/sws_path/suns-prod-images/1297411555937_ORIGINAL.jpg?quality=80&size=650x&stmp=1367540849060

Know your enemy

[wingah]

Pretty sure a deflated ball doesn't help a guy rush for 150 yards and 3 TDs. Besides all this is right now is rumor so before all you haters get your panties in a bunch lets wait and see if its legit or just sime butt hurt person who lost making up some stories.

[indyguy]

Pretty sure a deflated ball doesn't help a guy rush for 150 yards and 3 TDs. Besides all this is right now is rumor so before all you haters get your panties in a bunch lets wait and see if its legit or just sime butt hurt person who lost making up some stories.

Nope, the Colts porous defense allowed that to happen.

[88horsepower]

The whole story so far has placed both Colts and Patriots fans in a bad light. I wish someone more neutral to the game reported the story because the perception now is that Colts fans are sour. I am sour about the Colts not showing up to play.

Conversely, I feel bad for Patriots fans for having to yet again put up with this crap, whether it's true of not.

[adamblumy]

It may be a non story in terms of the game...the Colts just didn't belong and it didn't matter what type of balls were being used, but if the Pats actually lose draft picks because of this then it will really become significant.

[addicted36]

That's just it, Kravitz isn't about protecting anyone. He blames everyone.

I blame Goodell.

If he doesn't destroy evidence years ago this wouldn't be a story and no one would think that the Patriots were cheaters and look for ways they cheated.

Blame this guy

http://rack.3.mshcdn.com/media/ZgkyMDE0LzA5LzE5L2I4L1JHb29kZWxsLjhiMzkxLmpwZwpwCXRodW1iCTk1MHg1MzQjCmUJanBn/8ee9e009/5c9/RGoodell.jpg

[ssbledsoe]

The whole story so far has placed both Colts and Patriots fans in a bad light. I wish someone more neutral to the game reported the story because the perception now is that Colts fans are sour. I am sour about the Colts not showing up to play.

Conversely, I feel bad for Patriots fans for having to yet again put up with this crap, whether it's true of not.

I want to "like" this post...

[wingah]

If both teams used the same balls than I have no idea what the issue is.

[trixstar]

I don't know Kravitz and certainly don't know his reputation. I do know he specifically said "No one is saying this impacted the game, the colts were obliterated by the Patriots" which a lot of people seem to be glossing over.

[Hardcore]

The NFL sure does itself un-necessary harm by letting it out that they are investigating something rather than doing its investigation and then saying something if it needs to be said.
There are just too many people in this world who find it easy to think better of themselves while they accomplish nothing in their own lives... but find self-gratification by trying to knock others off high pedestals... and that makes them feel better about themselves.... good luck with that.

Game referees touch the pigskin before and after every play.... not only during yesterday's games.. but all season long... so if there was something consistently different about any of the balls... they would have thrown them out of the game and played with the balls that felt reasonable to them. Anyone who has ever gripped a football would know that this is not anything close to something that could give one team an advantage over the other.

[Samiamryan]

I blame Goodell.

If he doesn't destroy evidence years ago this wouldn't be a story and no one would think that the Patriots were cheaters and look for ways they cheated.

Blame this guy

http://rack.3.mshcdn.com/media/ZgkyMDE0LzA5LzE5L2I4L1JHb29kZWxsLjhiMzkxLmpwZwpwCXRodW1iCTk1MHg1MzQjCmUJanBn/8ee9e009/5c9/RGoodell.jpg

This man has brought a lot of harm to the league.

[88horsepower]

If both teams used the same balls than I have no idea what the issue is.

They don't use the same footballs. Each team has their own set.

[Morgoth]

Simple answer to both questions: it doesn't matter, Kravitz has done his "job" by creating excuses for the Colts sh!t show football performance and created a nice distraction for the Pats headed into the Super Bowl.

For those that don't live in the Indy market, Bob Kravitz isn't a "beat writer", he's a columnist. He's also known to create controversy however he can to get readers and clicks. He's an enormous d-bag and arrogant prick. He was Peyton's "mouthpiece" to the media when Peyton was in town, and always leaked the stories that built up media buzz.

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

[BostonNut]

Jesus....you're taking this just a tad too far...

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

[addicted36]

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

Really dude?

[88horsepower]

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

Too far. Too far, man.

[JPirog]

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

Man, I hope this isn't a typical response around here.

[wingah]

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

Making Colts fans everywhere proud.....:rolleyes:

[Samiamryan]

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

Ok, officially the stupidest guy in this thread.

[88horsepower]

Well, that's six posts on a row by six different members taking issue with the molest/rape comment. Is there a Blowout record book?

[freethrowtommy]

Well, that's six posts on a row by six different members taking issue with the molest/rape comment. Is there a Blowout record book?

Way to kill the streak. C'mon man!

[88horsepower]

Way to kill the streak. C'mon man!

Ah, crap. I didn't even consider that! Haha.

[pac213up]

How long was the thread when the Panthers were actually caught on camera heating up balls?

[pac213up]

if there's any truth to this and the NFL doesn't take serious action (and they won't).... then it's just becoming one big farce.

They did not take any action against the Panters this season so to be consistent I doubt they would take any action.

[ernieren]

They don't use the same footballs. Each team has their own set.

Each team Bring their own 12 Footballs . But no where does it say they use their own ball for the game. It would take to long to getting the right ball for each play. Qb tosses ball out of play , Defender intercepts ball keeps ball, Player goes out of bounds on other teams side and ball is left over there. The Refs get balls from a ball carrier on both sides of the field. There is no mark on the ball for home or away. Only balls that have something different to them is the Field goal balls. Those go to the refs and packaged . Then like posted earlier the Refs other players offensive and defensive hold those balls. A player on either team offensive or defensive would have known something was up fast.

Bottom Line this is a non story that a Colts writer came out with so how do we know it was the patriots behind this ? The ball that was taken off the field was during Colts offensive plays so why wouldn't it be a Colts story?

[pac213up]

So am I correct in assuming that the balls would have to be deflated on th sideline during the game? Or was there opportunity to do it beforehand?

It would have to happen during the game. Balls are checked before the game and randomly during the game. According the NFL VP of officiating having a ball taken out of play for abnormalities is not unheard of.

[nikpounder]

balls don't weight 14 pounds

it's about the pressure in the balls

Glad someone else noticed that 14.5 seems off, considering a shot put is 16 lbs

[shortking98]

I wonder how much of a factor temperature plays in this. If the balls were tested indoors pre-game and were at the low end of the allowable spectrum I would think that a 35 degree temperature drop could cause the pressure to drop outside of the allowable range.

[88horsepower]

I wonder how much of a factor temperature plays in this. If the balls were tested indoors pre-game and were at the low end of the allowable spectrum I would think that a 35 degree temperature drop could cause the pressure to drop outside of the allowable range.

Paging Mythbusters! They should do some sports related episodes if they haven't already.

[MLH]

I wonder how much of a factor temperature plays in this. If the balls were tested indoors pre-game and were at the low end of the allowable spectrum I would think that a 35 degree temperature drop could cause the pressure to drop outside of the allowable range.

It seems feasable but at the same time, with how many games have been played outside in frigid temperatures you'd think this would've come up before. Unless of course this is just another Patriots headhunt by a sore-azzed loser.

[MLH]

It would have to happen during the game. Balls are checked before the game and randomly during the game. According the NFL VP of officiating having a ball taken out of play for abnormalities is not unheard of.

Then that would be a ballsy move and an ill advised risk(not that it's out of the realm of possibility) for a small and realistically unecessary gain. Were there a bunch of guys huddled under a tarp with a pile of footballs that went unoticed?

[Cactuspies]

They did not take any action against the Panters this season so to be consistent I doubt they would take any action.

don't forget that a bunch of panthers basically got away with doing PED's during the 2004 superbowl against the pats. I don't remember anything happening to those players.

I didn't hear about this crazy crap until a little while ago.

The Ref's place the ball on the field after each play correct? Most of the players toss the ball to the ref after a play correct? So no ref at any point in time noticed 1 out of 1000000 balls to seem or feel a little off? I'm sure 1oz on a football would make it slighly more "squishy" Cold makes air go poof. just look at your vehicle tires. sure the ball also gets harder because of the skin, but really.

Oh yeah, I heard that Indy pumps or used to pump in fake crowd noise.

rules and issues always seem to get changed and come up after Indy loses to the Patriots.

[Andrew Jones]

don't forget that a bunch of panthers basically got away with doing PED's during the 2004 superbowl against the pats. I don't remember anything happening to those players.

I didn't hear about this crazy crap until a little while ago.

The Ref's place the ball on the field after each play correct? Most of the players toss the ball to the ref after a play correct? So no ref at any point in time noticed 1 out of 1000000 balls to seem or feel a little off? I'm sure 1oz on a football would make it slighly more "squishy" Cold makes air go poof. just look at your vehicle tires. sure the ball also gets harder because of the skin, but really.

Oh yeah, I heard that Indy pumps or used to pump in fake crowd noise.

rules and issues always seem to get changed and come up after Indy loses to the Patriots.

One did. If you watched the game you should have noticed a ref stepping in and removing a ball from the field prior to a play being run.

[ssbledsoe]

Did Kravitz rape you? Molest your kids? He was the only media person in Indy to question Polian during his reign of terror. You sound like a whiny baby, and since the story is true you look foolish.

http://rs2img.memecdn.com/u-mad-bro-like-a-sir_o_1226368.jpg

[chezball]

The only question I have is,what's the under/over on how many pages this goes?

[IronMonkey415]

Related to Lenny Kravitz in any way?

[BostonNut]

If the Patriots actually get found guilty and punished? There is a strong possibility this will remain on the main page forever.

If the Pats get cleared? The haterZ will scatter back into their holes until the next Pats game when they will be accused of making it too hot in Arizona.

The only question I have is,what's the under/over on how many pages this goes?

[eaglescubs555]

What if the deflated ball was the reason Cribbs muffed the punt? Could have changed the outcome of the entire game?

#Cheatriots
#Deflateagate2015
#ThanksTopps

[BostonNut]

Nice try but K balls are provided by and only in possession of the refs.

What if the deflated ball was the reason Cribbs muffed the punt? Could have changed the outcome of the entire game?

#Cheatriots
#Deflateagate2015
#ThanksTopps

[eaglescubs555]

Nice try but K balls are provided by and only in possession of the refs.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/files/2012/12/simpsons_mob.gif

[MLH]

What if the deflated ball was the reason Cribbs muffed the punt? Could have changed the outcome of the entire game?

#Cheatriots
#Deflateagate2015
#ThanksTopps

The 45-7 game?? C'mon now.
#eaglessuckfocusonthat

[eaglescubs555]

The 45-7 game?? C'mon now.
#eaglessuckfocusonthat

It was 0-0 when Cribbs fumbled lol

[ernieren]

What if the deflated ball was the reason Cribbs muffed the punt? Could have changed the outcome of the entire game?

#Cheatriots
#Deflateagate2015
#ThanksTopps

Yes the Ball hitting Cribbs in the face and bouncing off him was a muffed punt. He misjudged the ball from the wind and ran into it. Bam Patriots ball.

[chutneyfactory]

People are looking for reasons to hate the Patriots. Again.

45-7 win in a Conference Championship game. That's all I need to hear. Think the Pats could've subbed in the Bucs for the second half and still won soundly.

You mean the second half that they scored all their points in? If you're gonna trash talk, at least make some sense.

[MLH]

It was 0-0 when Cribbs fumbled lol

What if Cribbs' facemask deflated the ball? :eek:

[RedSoxFan28]

"There is a long line of people who want to find some excuse for how the Patriots have had success for so long, and the bottom line is that it's good coaching and good players." -- Tedy Bruschi

[wingah]

It seems feasable but at the same time, with how many games have been played outside in frigid temperatures you'd think this would've come up before. Unless of course this is just another Patriots headhunt by a sore-azzed loser.

That is exactly what this is.

I wonder how much of a factor temperature plays in this. If the balls were tested indoors pre-game and were at the low end of the allowable spectrum I would think that a 35 degree temperature drop could cause the pressure to drop outside of the allowable range.

My tires always lose air pressure when it is cold out. If you have a built in pressure gauge on you car dash and live in a cold state you have probably seen this 1000 times.

[Andrew Jones]

My tires always lose air pressure when it is cold out. If you have a built in pressure gauge on you car dash and live in a cold state you have probably seen this 1000 times.

Wasn't it 50 degrees during the game yesterday?

[eaglescubs555]

Tom Brady laughing at the claims on the radio show, lol.

Apparently this makes you grip the ball better, had no clue that was a thing

[lobo_hacker]

How long was the thread when the Panthers were actually caught on camera heating up balls?

-That's not cheating because the Patriots didn't do it.

Clown question, bro.

lobo_hacker, Yankees Suck

[chitownbears22]

BostonNut said we can play with our pitchforks again!!!!!! Thank you sir!

[SaveMeTheGum]

This whole story is actually pretty hilarious. Both teams use the same balls. The Pats ran the ball down the throat of Indy all game. The score was 45-7.

I do think that it's pretty funny that both teams supply balls for a game. I guess I always just assumed the league provided them. Pretty dumb in my opinion to have 2 sets of balls anyways.

[lobo_hacker]

...

I do think that it's pretty funny that both teams supply balls for a game. I guess I always just assumed the league provided them. Pretty dumb in my opinion to have 2 sets of balls anyways.

-I was a ball boy for a couple of college football teams many moons ago.

Both teams wouldn't let me serve that role without fingernails. Every time i touched the football during an offensive series, i was directed to scratch the hell out of the ball to improve grip.

Every team does crap like that when they can get away with it. To those that think the retort is ridiculous, it's a valid concern whether you like it or not. Glass houses and all that. Your team 'cheats'. My team 'cheats'. The Colts got abso-friggin-lutely destroyed this weekend. The suppleness, shape, and temperature of their balls had zero effect on the outcome.

lobo_hacker, who probably should get back to work before he orders that laptop he's been eyeing

[mainerunr]

Wasn't it 50 degrees during the game yesterday?

Yeah, but if they were filled at 70 degrees and at the low end, even a 20 degree drop could be enough to put them below the lower limit.

As for the guy who said they were supposed to weigh 14.5 but only weighed 13.5, according to the ESPN article, they are supposed to be between 13.5 and 14.5 (ounces, not lb) and filled to 12.5-13.5 psi. The balls are tested by the officials and marked prior to the game then given to the ball attendant.

Also, the NFL has stated that it is not uncommon for them to remove a ball from play for testing during the week. So if it is known that they often check a random ball, why would you even bother tampering with them?

There is nothing abnormal about the events so far other than some crybaby Indy writer stirring up the pot because his team got destroyed. Actually, that is normal too these days.

[BostonNut]

As always, Jerry Thornton says it best!

Thornography » ‘Deflategate': Embrace the stupidity (http://thornography.weei.com/sports/boston/2015/01/19/deflate-gate-embrace-the-stupidity/)

[Broncos 2583]

Each team Bring their own 12 Footballs . But no where does it say they use their own ball for the game. It would take to long to getting the right ball for each play. Qb tosses ball out of play , Defender intercepts ball keeps ball, Player goes out of bounds on other teams side and ball is left over there. The Refs get balls from a ball carrier on both sides of the field. There is no mark on the ball for home or away. Only balls that have something different to them is the Field goal balls. Those go to the refs and packaged . Then like posted earlier the Refs other players offensive and defensive hold those balls. A player on either team offensive or defensive would have known something was up fast.


This is not true, only K footballs are shared amongst the teams. Each ball has their team stamp on them. That's how they tell them apart.

[BostonNut]

BeliCHEAT: "We will fully cooperate with the league."

It Is What It Is » Bill Belichick insists Patriots will ‘cooperate fully with whatever the league asks’ about game balls (http://itiswhatitis.weei.com/sports/newengland/football/patriots/2015/01/19/bill-belichick-insists-patriots-will-cooperate-fully-with-whatever-the-league-asks-about-game-balls/)

[JohnnyG711]

Why does controversy always follow the Patriots?

[trixstar]

Why does controversy always follow the Patriots?

Because people hate on other people who are successful

[exitmusicblue]

SI article below. Some of these things, I feel the writer is being oversensitive; others, not so much.

It's not the point that the Colts would've lost anyway -- that's more than fine, it was likely deserved. Luck has a lot more maturing left to do, etc. etc. The point is that the lore of the "Cheatriots," who were once already found guilty of cheating and officially punished, will only become more deeply ingrained if the allegations wind up true. Asterisks, anybody? As for mental asterisks, count this Niners fan (me) in.

DeflateGate allegations against Bill Belichick, Patriots should come as no surprise - NFL - SI.com (http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/01/19/new-england-patriots-deflategate-bill-belichick-tom-brady)

[TASS]

Because people hate on other people who are successful

+10000000000 :)!

It has really gone to absurd levels, it just affirms the old adage 'It's tough being on top' but as a Patriots fan it never get's old!

[corndog]

Because people hate on other people who are successful

Actually that's not it at all for me.

Until Belichick is gone, the Patriots are viewed the same (by me) as Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Lance Armstrong. *Tainted success.

[exitmusicblue]

Actually that's not it at all for me.

Until Belichick is gone, the Patriots are viewed the same (by me) as Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Lance Armstrong. *Tainted success.

It's you plus much of, if not most of, non-Patriots nation. I was grinning along with everyone else while BOers were taking pot shots at Dallas. The back-forth was in good humor, salute to Cowboys fans. Here we have a disease of real denial.

Anyways... people believe what they want to believe, which is their prerogative. It's a free country. But history is history, fact is fact, and it started with this:

2007 National Football League videotaping controversy - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_National_Football_League_videotaping_controversy)

Aren't there Patriots fans ashamed of this? A handful somewhere?

[lobo_hacker]

It's you plus much of, if not most of, non-Patriots nation. I was grinning along with everyone else while BOers were taking pot shots at Dallas. The back-forth was in good humor, salute to Cowboys fans. Here we have a disease of real denial.

Anyways... people believe what they want to believe, which is their prerogative. It's a free country. But history is history, fact is fact, and it started with this:

2007 National Football League videotaping controversy - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_National_Football_League_videotaping_controversy)

Aren't there Patriots fans ashamed of this? A handful somewhere?

-Ashamed is the wrong word.

It's like asking if they're ashamed of getting an encroachment penalty. Sure, they're mad when it happens. But they're not the only ones doing it. To think that the Patriots are inflicting their evil ways against all the other NFL teams and that the rest of the league is 'innocent' is naive and just plain dumb.

Let's assume that all the allegations ever lodged against the team are true. That means the Pats got caught. But the Pats aren't the only ones doing it. So i don't think there is any shame to be had or endured. Brief annoyance at doing it/getting caught/not-learning-to avoid-this-stuff-as-they-didn't-need-to-do-any-of-it-to-win-those-games...maybe. But I'd be more ashamed of having an obsession regarding a team i supposedly don't like. Unhealthy and a bit scary. Also gives off a crazy high-school girlfriend jealousy vibe.

lobo_hacker

[ejs23]

"There is a long line of people who want to find some excuse for how the Patriots have had success for so long, and the bottom line is that it's good coaching and good players." -- Tedy Bruschi

and most people in prison are completely innocent.... just ask them.


This whole story is actually pretty hilarious. Both teams use the same balls.

no, they don't use the same balls. this is a simple fact that every article I've read states right up front. why can't people get it right?



Until Belichick is gone, the Patriots are viewed the same (by me) as Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa and Lance Armstrong. *Tainted success.

exactly. i have no doubt the Patriots could have been successful without the cheating. but the cheating is now part of their legacy.

[RedSoxFan28]

and most people in prison are completely innocent.... just ask them.

................... :coffee: :coffee: :coffee:

[exitmusicblue]

-Ashamed is the wrong word.

It's like asking if they're ashamed of getting an encroachment penalty. Sure, they're mad when it happens. But they're not the only ones doing it. To think that the Patriots are inflicting their evil ways against all the other NFL teams and that the rest of the league is 'innocent' is naive and just plain dumb.

Let's assume that all the allegations ever lodged against the team are true. That means the Pats got caught. But the Pats aren't the only ones doing it. So i don't think there is any shame to be had or endured. Brief annoyance at doing it/getting caught/not-learning-to avoid-this-stuff-as-they-didn't-need-to-do-any-of-it-to-win-those-games...maybe. But I'd be more ashamed of having an obsession regarding a team i supposedly don't like. Unhealthy and a bit scary. Also gives off a crazy high-school girlfriend jealousy vibe.

lobo_hacker

An encroachment penalty? Love the alternate reality... ;) - your crazy HS gf.

[SukiBrady12]

It makes sense now why Dqwell Jackson could easily intercept Brady's pass.

Wait a minute, Luck had a harder ball so how did Revis intercept that hard ball so easily.

Colts lost because they couldn't stop Blount.

[corndog]

-Ashamed is the wrong word.

It's like asking if they're ashamed of getting an encroachment penalty. Sure, they're mad when it happens. But they're not the only ones doing it. To think that the Patriots are inflicting their evil ways against all the other NFL teams and that the rest of the league is 'innocent' is naive and just plain dumb.

Let's assume that all the allegations ever lodged against the team are true. That means the Pats got caught. But the Pats aren't the only ones doing it. So i don't think there is any shame to be had or endured. Brief annoyance at doing it/getting caught/not-learning-to avoid-this-stuff-as-they-didn't-need-to-do-any-of-it-to-win-those-games...maybe. But I'd be more ashamed of having an obsession regarding a team i supposedly don't like. Unhealthy and a bit scary. Also gives off a crazy high-school girlfriend jealousy vibe.

lobo_hacker

This is usually the first line of defense when schoolchildren get caught doing something wrong. "Well everyone else is doing it!"

[exitmusicblue]

This is usually the first line of defense when schoolchildren get caught doing something wrong. "Well everyone else is doing it!"

It's also what the juicers said. And they were wrong, too...

[ssbledsoe]

This is the official rule I guess, at least from what I found

NFL Rules Digest: Ball (http://www.nfl.com/rulebook/ball)



Then i found this

http://static.nfl.com/static/content/public/image/rulebook/pdfs/5_2013_Ball.pdf



He took it right from the rules instead of "hack writing"

and most people in prison are completely innocent.... just ask them.




no, they don't use the same balls. this is a simple fact that every article I've read states right up front. why can't people get it right?




exactly. i have no doubt the Patriots could have been successful without the cheating. but the cheating is now part of their legacy.

Just because every article you read is incorrectly informed, doesn't make it right. Refer to post 57 straight from the NFL rules of how the 36 footballs are prepared and enter the game.

[ejs23]

................... :coffee: :coffee: :coffee:

oh look... he expressed himself with the coffee drinking emoticon. so you know he's super serious. ugh... hipsters.

[imbaked247]

It makes sense now why Dqwell Jackson could easily intercept Brady's pass.

Wait a minute, Luck had a harder ball so how did Revis intercept that hard ball so easily.

Colts lost because they couldn't stop Blount.

Rookie mistake to let the Blount run :D:eek:

[ejs23]

Just because every article you read is incorrectly informed, doesn't make it right. Refer to post 57 straight from the NFL rules of how the 36 footballs are prepared and enter the game.

except the rule doesn't contradict the facts. each team provides their own balls for testing and use. because the articles didn't go into greater detail doesn't change anything.

[ssbledsoe]

except the rule doesn't contradict the facts. each team provides their own balls for testing and use. because the articles didn't go into greater detail doesn't change anything.

Wait, so it's ok to ignore the rules when it doesn't help your argument, but they're stone when they do. Keep grinding the axe...

[RedSoxFan28]

oh look... he expressed himself with the coffee drinking emoticon. so you know he's super serious. ugh... hipsters.

:coffee::coffee: ;)

[BostonNut]

Just like the Steelers of the 70's and the Broncos of the 90's.


exactly. i have no doubt the Patriots could have been successful without the cheating. but the cheating is now part of their legacy.

[bigzig]

It makes sense now why Dqwell Jackson could easily intercept Brady's pass.

Wait a minute, Luck had a harder ball so how did Revis intercept that hard ball so easily.

Colts lost because they couldn't stop Blount.

I have not a single person blame the loss on the footballs.

[88horsepower]

I have not a single person blame the loss on the footballs.

Nor have I. Anyone who does is delusional.

[THE(NEXT)LEVEL]

Breaking news:

[kevinh1919]

Taken from an ESPN news article:

"Officials check balls as they go into the game, and if the ball doesn't feel perfect, they can throw it out," Daopoulos said. "There is always the possibility that balls can lose air due to the conditions."

How would the Pats bypass the officials and get them into the game?

Rookie mistake to let the Blount run :D:eek:

Puff, puff, pass!

:p

[RedSoxFan28]

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/11713_10152983179720605_5629544365942144106_n.jpg?oh=553fe7325f5f330c5cce6a637e00b8f7&oe=556604F4

[coltsnsox07]

I thought everyone here would enjoy this too, it's like you could bring it up every year or so..
http://i812.photobucket.com/albums/zz43/coltsnsox07/spygate1_zpsb9be24e3.jpg (http://s812.photobucket.com/user/coltsnsox07/media/spygate1_zpsb9be24e3.jpg.html)

[RedSoxFan28]

I thought everyone here would enjoy this too, it's like you could bring it up every year or so..
http://i812.photobucket.com/albums/zz43/coltsnsox07/spygate1_zpsb9be24e3.jpg (http://s812.photobucket.com/user/coltsnsox07/media/spygate1_zpsb9be24e3.jpg.html)

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/1457598_549125185231037_4778010065949088712_n.jpg?oh=4011e44b8026858bac8ab94a1f34b36e&oe=552012A2

[MLH]

https://scontent-a-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/1457598_549125185231037_4778010065949088712_n.jpg?oh=4011e44b8026858bac8ab94a1f34b36e&oe=552012A2

...and now a team that got completely embarrassed in the F'in AFC championship game like they were a middle school practice squad gets off scott free and we have to defend our team once again. Woe is us lol.

[Samiamryan]

Just like the Steelers of the 70's and the Broncos of the 90's.

Hates when someone calls his team out for cheating, yet is quick to call everyone else out. The hypocrisy is strong with this one.

[exitmusicblue]

...and now a team that got completely embarrassed in the F'in AFC championship game like they were a middle school practice squad gets off scott free and we have to defend our team once again. Woe is us lol.

Welcome to ESPN, cheaterz, you made it :cool: - NFL investigating whether New England Patriots deflated footballs against Indianapolis Colts - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/id/12193345/nfl-investigating-whether-new-england-patriots-deflated-footballs-indianapolis-colts)

[MLH]

Welcome to ESPN, cheaterz, you made it :cool: - NFL investigating whether New England Patriots deflated footballs against Indianapolis Colts - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/id/12193345/nfl-investigating-whether-new-england-patriots-deflated-footballs-indianapolis-colts)

I'm not complaining about all the people like you taking advantage of the cheating name that Belichick was nice enough bestow on the Patriots. I don't blame anybody but Bill for all of this crap, but sometimes you just have to admit when someone got their azz handed to them. The Colts needed a priest at the end of that game, nothing would've changed that.

[exitmusicblue]

I'm not complaining about all the people like you taking advantage of the cheating name that Belichick was nice enough bestow on the Patriots. I don't blame anybody but Bill for all of this crap, but sometimes you just have to admit when someone got their azz handed to them. The Colts needed a priest at the end of that game, nothing would've changed that.

So if they'd done the same to a better team, in a closer game, only then it wouldn't have been alright? Please.

(edited out semi-nasty comment...)

[lionsfan20]

Here is a little logical FYI: In the NFL, each team brings 12 Wilson footballs to the game and uses its own. Meaning, the Patriots' offense uses one set of footballs and those are taken off the field when possession shifts. The referees inspect all of the balls about 2 hours before game time and maintain possession of them until the game begins. Once the game begins, the teams control the balls.

In simple terms, each offense uses there own balls.
I am once again amazed at how many people open their mouth on this forum without actually knowing the rules of the game and how things work in NFL. I thought it was pretty common knowledge that each team used their own balls but apparently not.

[lionsfan20]

You forgot this one:

Patriots fans who are sick and tired of their team being dragged through the mud after every single playoff win.
Nobody feels sorry for patriots and their fans they brought this on themselves by getting caught using shady practices in the past. There are a lot of other "dynasties" throughout the years that have not received this ridicule so don't say it is just patriots "haters" or people picking on the patriots for no good reason.

[norskarv]

Well I for one would never let anyone deflate my balls and I would never submit my balls for testing. Also, I would never let an opposing team touch my balls. Let them play with their own damn balls.

[pac213up]

https://twitter.com/RobGronkowski/status/557394981930168320

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B7xDxzGCIAIwhzk.jpg

[Kingofkings1281]

Nobody feels sorry for patriots and their fans they brought this on themselves by getting caught using shady practices in the past. There are a lot of other "dynasties" throughout the years that have not received this ridicule so don't say it is just patriots "haters" or people picking on the patriots for no good reason.

You are surely the most unbiased poster on this site when it comes to the Patriots. You write nothing but truth.

[ejs23]

Just like the Steelers of the 70's and the Broncos of the 90's.

the Steelers of the 70's? are you referring to the non-existent steroid scandal? the steroids that every team in the NFL used?

every time in the past 10+ years there's been any sort of accusation of cheating, it's centered on the Patriots. now what's more likely.... 1) there's a grand conspiracy involving everyone outside of New England to frame the Pats even though they're completely innocent, or 2) they got caught cheating...?

just own it.

let me show you how.... the Pittsburgh Penguins tanked in order to draft Mario Lemieux. it was unethical. and while I've never read the NHL rule book I have to assume it qualified as cheating.

there are no Pats-haters. the team, and more specifically its coach, tarnished their own legacy. it's a shame really. solid franchise with good ownership and a great QB.... the cheating was probably unnecessary but we'll never know now.

[BostonNut]

Edit: Not worth the effort today...don't have the energy for the Pittshomers.

[solt0131]

the Steelers of the 70's? are you referring to the non-existent steroid scandal? the steroids that every team in the NFL used?

every time in the past 10+ years there's been any sort of accusation of cheating, it's centered on the Patriots. now what's more likely.... 1) there's a grand conspiracy involving everyone outside of New England to frame the Pats even though they're completely innocent, or 2) they got caught cheating...?

just own it.

let me show you how.... the Pittsburgh Penguins tanked in order to draft Mario Lemieux. it was unethical. and while I've never read the NHL rule book I have to assume it qualified as cheating.

there are no Pats-haters. the team, and more specifically its coach, tarnished their own legacy. it's a shame really. solid franchise with good ownership and a great QB.... the cheating was probably unnecessary but we'll never know now.

Excellent point. Also, steroids back then were not illegal. They were not even illegal for public use. Since they are illegal now, people will always bring that up and refer it back to being a scandal which is ridiculousness.

[jlzinck]

This thread is gold.

[pac213up]

This thread is gold.

As a Pats fan I have learned to embrace it. Love this stuff. I hope BB has something up his sleeve for the Super Bowl.

*Still looking for the Panthers multi-page thread on ball tampering.

[ssbledsoe]

the Steelers of the 70's? are you referring to the non-existent steroid scandal? the steroids that every team in the NFL used?

every time in the past 10+ years there's been any sort of accusation of cheating, it's centered on the Patriots. now what's more likely.... 1) there's a grand conspiracy involving everyone outside of New England to frame the Pats even though they're completely innocent, or 2) they got caught cheating...?

just own it.

let me show you how.... the Pittsburgh Penguins tanked in order to draft Mario Lemieux. it was unethical. and while I've never read the NHL rule book I have to assume it qualified as cheating.

there are no Pats-haters. the team, and more specifically its coach, tarnished their own legacy. it's a shame really. solid franchise with good ownership and a great QB.... the cheating was probably unnecessary but we'll never know now.

So aside from Spygate, every other NFL scandal in the past 10+ years has been centered around the Patriots?

Ahhhhh yes, the Pats were resoundingly found guilty in Bounty Gate. Yep, the Pats are the only team with an association to rule bending.

Remember when the Pats were investigated for listening to other GM's conversations on road games.

And of course, the time when the Pats were investigated for pumping additional crowd noise into the stadium... Yep all of those were Pats scandals!

[redsoxx11]

Bunch of histrionic whiney Pats haters on this thread. STFU and go get your team in the SB on Madden and stop your butt hurt.

[groundsupport]

I don't know whats worse. Patriot Haters or Patriot Fans.

[redsoxx11]

I don't know whats worse. Patriot Haters or Patriot Fans.

I don't know why anyone from MI can talk any #@#@#@#@, stepping on any player on the ground is now officially known as the SUH :)!

[groundsupport]

I don't know why anyone from MI can talk any #@#@#@#@, stepping on any player on the ground is now officially known as the SUH :)!


I guess I was defending him and telling everyone who was slamming him to go STFU and play a madden football game.

It's time to put your big boy pants on and act like an adult.

:coffee:

[pac213up]

Embrace it Pats fans, embrace it! No reason to get so worked up.

[RedSoxFan28]

the Steelers of the 70's? are you referring to the non-existent steroid scandal? the steroids that every team in the NFL used?

every time in the past 10+ years there's been any sort of accusation of cheating, it's centered on the Patriots. now what's more likely.... 1) there's a grand conspiracy involving everyone outside of New England to frame the Pats even though they're completely innocent, or 2) they got caught cheating...?

just own it.

let me show you how.... the Pittsburgh Penguins tanked in order to draft Mario Lemieux. it was unethical. and while I've never read the NHL rule book I have to assume it qualified as cheating.

there are no Pats-haters. the team, and more specifically its coach, tarnished their own legacy. it's a shame really. solid franchise with good ownership and a great QB.... the cheating was probably unnecessary but we'll never know now.

"This is usually the first line of defense when schoolchildren get caught doing something wrong. "Well everyone else is doing it!" "

[corndog]

I don't know whats worse. Patriot Haters or Patriot Fans.

Not even close.

[pac213up]

“It’s a long line of people that want to step up and make an excuse as to why their team lost,” Bruschi said. “Tom [Brady] said it earlier that he’s heard it all and I echo that. I’ve heard it all too in terms of you want to look at the New England Patriots and all the success and you want to wonder why. A part of you thinks if you’re not a fan, not a player, not a coach, it’s like why couldn’t we achieve it. Well, you want to point the finger and make some type of reason. Get in line, it’s a long line.

“But, it feels good to be a player in that locker room knowing that you frustrate someone that much — that you frustrate someone that much that they are talking about some type of ball controversy, or fans or whatever because all they ever do in that locker room and on that team is move on from it. You laugh at it behind the scenes and you joke a little bit about it up there and you really just disregard it. Say however you want to feel about it, but who got the win and that is what is important.”

[Cades]

the Steelers of the 70's? are you referring to the non-existent steroid scandal? the steroids that every team in the NFL used?

every time in the past 10+ years there's been any sort of accusation of cheating, it's centered on the Patriots. now what's more likely.... 1) there's a grand conspiracy involving everyone outside of New England to frame the Pats even though they're completely innocent, or 2) they got caught cheating...?

just own it.

let me show you how.... the Pittsburgh Penguins tanked in order to draft Mario Lemieux. it was unethical. and while I've never read the NHL rule book I have to assume it qualified as cheating.

there are no Pats-haters. the team, and more specifically its coach, tarnished their own legacy. it's a shame really. solid franchise with good ownership and a great QB.... the cheating was probably unnecessary but we'll never know now.

you just proved pats fans point, thanks :D

[redsoxx11]

I guess I was defending him and telling everyone who was slamming him to go STFU and play a madden football game.

It's time to put your big boy pants on and act like an adult.

:coffee:

Aww what's wrong, did I offend your sensibilities because your home team is full of dirty players? Obviously you have a deflated balls problem.

[GoHawks25]

Aww what's wrong, did I offend your sensibilities because your home team is full of dirty players? Obviously you have a deflated balls problem.

There is always "that guy" Who brags about his team going to the SB that no one likes. Grow up.

[groundsupport]

Aww what's wrong, did I offend your sensibilities because your home team is full of dirty players? Obviously you have a deflated balls problem.


Nope, I'm good to go. It's you that I worry about. So angry because people make fun of something you have absolutely no control over.

BTW, Lions are getting rid of both stompers. But Carry on.

:D

[Andrew Jones]

NFL opens Patriots deflated football probe after AFC Championship win - Newsday (http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/nfl-opens-patriots-deflated-football-probe-after-afc-championship-win-1.9821346)

[redsoxx11]

There is always "that guy" Who brags about his team going to the SB that no one likes. Grow up.

Actually, I wasn't bragging in this particular instance merely pointing out the hypocrisy in anyone who's from MI complaining about dirty play/trick since they have multiple incidents of PLAYERS who are just straight up dirty. So maybe once you grow up and learn how to see the inferred meaning in something then ... oh wait never mind you're a Seahawks fan.. you make "earthquakes".. because building a stadium specifically to trap sound is "within the rules".

[groundsupport]

Actually, I wasn't bragging in this particular instance merely pointing out the hypocrisy in anyone who's from MI complaining about dirty play/trick since they have multiple incidents of PLAYERS who are just straight up dirty. So maybe once you grow up and learn how to see the inferred meaning in something then ... oh wait never mind you're a Seahawks fan.. you make "earthquakes".. because building a stadium specifically to trap sound is "within the rules".

Once again, I never defended the Lions Dirty Players for being Dirty. And they're both no longer Lions. Riola won't return, and odds are that Suh is gone.

There is a differene, but please, carry on with your blatant homerism.

[GoHawks25]

Actually, I wasn't bragging in this particular instance merely pointing out the hypocrisy in anyone who's from MI complaining about dirty play/trick since they have multiple incidents of PLAYERS who are just straight up dirty. So maybe once you grow up and learn how to see the inferred meaning in something then ... oh wait never mind you're a Seahawks fan.. you make "earthquakes".. because building a stadium specifically to trap sound is "within the rules".

Dude, you were bragging LOL. "STFU and go get your team in the SB on Madden and stop your butt hurt."

Here is the definition of bragging: To talk or write about oneself in a proud or self-impressed way.

Now why don't you grow up :)! Please :)!

[lobo_hacker]

An encroachment penalty? Love the alternate reality... ;) - your crazy HS gf.

-It is apt. Encroachment is a violation of the rules. Balls not inflated to the appropriate pressure is a violation of the rules. Both are things that Patriots fans wish didn't happen and wish the Patriots didn't do. Both are about equivalent impacts on the emotional state of a reasonably well-adjusted fan. And both had the exact same effect on the outcome of the game. Which is to say, none.

I really don't see this being that big of a deal regardless of what team did it. I cannot fathom the massive bag of crazy going on in some people's heads that want to make believe this is some massive conspiracy that invalidates the accomplishments of the Yankees of the NFL. Talk all you want, but Pats fans are like far-out religious nutters. No amount of complaining or angst directed at the team is going to shake their fandom. I think the haters have to be the more bonkers of the two for spending so much time and energy against a team they allegedly hate.

As to the overall point of the response, a question was asked, and i answered it. I'm sorry you can't understand.

lobo_hacker, who probably needs to just stay out of these threads

[redsoxx11]

Dude, you were bragging LOL. "STFU and go get your team in the SB on Madden and stop your butt hurt."

Here is the definition of bragging: To talk or write about oneself in a proud or self-impressed way.

Now why don't you grow up :)! Please :)!

In an earlier post, that you didn't quote. So I was responding to the one you quoted. SO next time why not quote the stuff you want to talk about instead of another innocuous post that has nothing to do with that you were talking about. But thanks for googleing "bragging" because you didn't know the definition off the top of your head.

[GoHawks25]

In an earlier post, that you didn't quote. So I was responding to the one you quoted. SO next time why not quote the stuff you want to talk about instead of another innocuous post that has nothing to do with that you were talking about. But thanks for googleing "bragging" because you didn't know the definition off the top of your head.

I put that definition so you could read it, since you clearly are bragging, and then deny the fact that you were bragging. It seemed you needed a clear definition. Again, no likes someone who brags about their team making it to the SB.

[redsoxx11]

I put that definition so you could read it, since you clearly are bragging, and then deny the fact that you were bragging. It seemed you needed a clear definition. Again, no likes someone who brags about their team making it to the SB.

Again you quoted a totally different post, so why would I not deny bragging in that particular post. Next time you want to make an accusation at least use the correct post and context you are accusing me of. Or did all those "earthquakes" rattle your brain.

[88horsepower]

There was a moment where this thread was actually going well considering the circumstances but it's certainly taken a turn with a lot of people throwing eggs at each other. Anyhow, some news...

Reports: D'Qwell Jackson's INT Triggered Deflated Ball Investigation (http://deadspin.com/reports-dqwell-jacksons-int-triggered-deflated-ball-in-1680569440)

My apologies if this already was reported earlier in the thread. It's hard to read everything amid all of the crap people have posted.

[TASS]

I'm not sure if this has been previously mentioned, but the ball in question was switched out of the game prior to the Patriots 1st offensive play of the 3rd Qt.

The Patriots proceeded to outscore the Colts 28-0, it would appear to me that the situation had been handled prior to the Pats putting up 28 points!

Really not sure why this is still being talked about but do understand that there is 2 weeks to kill until SB #49. :rolleyes:

[88horsepower]

I'm not sure if this has been previously mentioned, but the ball in question was switched out of the game prior to the Patriots 1st offensive play of the 3rd Qt.

The Patriots proceeded to outscore the Colts 28-0, it would appear to me that the situation had been handled prior to the Pats putting up 28 points!

Really not sure why this is still being talked about but do understand that there is 2 weeks to kill until SB #49. :rolleyes:

Nobody here, that I know of, is claiming the Patriots beat Indy because of the deflated balls. People here are more interested in knowing if the Patriots tried to influence the outcome of the game by violating the rules.

[jlzinck]

Anyone read the SI.com article.....That is some 911 Truther reporting there

[88horsepower]

Anyone read the SI.com article.....That is some 911 Truther reporting there

Ha! All I had to do was see who wrote the article and I didn't even bother reading the rest. :rolleyes:

You all do realize there's no way for the Patriots to find a pleasant conclusion to this, right?

If the NFL says something did happen, it will result in the general public to raise their pitchforks regarding the Patriots having cheated again.

If the NFL says something didn't happen, it will cause people to believe the NFL is covering this up (i.e. destroying the evidence) to protect the Patriots since they are representing the AFC in the Super Bowl. People will still believe the Patriots cheated.

[kevinh1919]

Some of you boys are way "over the top" in your hatred toward anything Patriot-related. (not just in reference to this thread)

Go Pats!

:cool:

[lobo_hacker]

Anyone read the SI.com article.....That is some 911 Truther reporting there

-My god, the author spent six paragraphs complaining about that Ravens play.

6!

That. Was. Not. Against. Any. Rule.

My head hurts now, thanks.

lobo_hacker

[pac213up]

Anyone read the SI.com article.....That is some 911 Truther reporting there

That guy got destroyed on talk radio this morning. Could not back any of it up.

[trixstar]

-My god, the author spent six paragraphs complaining about that Ravens play.

6!

That. Was. Not. Against. Any. Rule.

My head hurts now, thanks.

lobo_hacker

My favorite one was the TV in the restaurant by the lighthouse that only NE's sideline can see

hahahahaha

[exitmusicblue]

Nobody feels sorry for patriots and their fans they brought this on themselves by getting caught using shady practices in the past. There are a lot of other "dynasties" throughout the years that have not received this ridicule so don't say it is just patriots "haters" or people picking on the patriots for no good reason.

Well put...

Timeline -- https://www.yahoo.com/sports/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/how-did-colts-find-out-about-deflate-gate--and-gronk-takes-blame-144407663.html

[MLH]

So if they'd done the same to a better team, in a closer game, only then it wouldn't have been alright? Please.

(edited out semi-nasty comment...)

Oh don't be scared to be nasty man. Speak yo mind. Look, if this investigation proves that the Patriots are guilty, they should be punished however the NFL sees fit because they can't let them get away with stuff like this, especially with the spygate history. Until then though, i'm gonna enjoy this win over an inferior team just like I did the Ravens win, no matter how many of you (word ommited that is semi-nasty) post your cheating comments on these boards or elsewhere.

[pac213up]

#embracethehate

[pac213up]

Aaron Rodgers likes to over-inflate balls. Cheater! LOL

https://vid.me/lVSDPV=nrT.

[exitmusicblue]

Oh don't be scared to be nasty man. Speak yo mind. Look, if this investigation proves that the Patriots are guilty, they should be punished however the NFL sees fit because they can't let them get away with stuff like this, especially with the spygate history. Until then though, i'm gonna enjoy this win over an inferior team just like I did the Ravens win, no matter how many of you (word ommited that is semi-nasty) post your cheating comments on these boards or elsewhere.

Naw man, realized late that what I wrote sounded like an unwarranted personal attack on my part.

I think your above approach is spot-on, and how I'd roll if I were a Pats fan.

[jlzinck]

You all do realize there's no way for the Patriots to find a pleasant conclusion to this, right?
.

Are you talking about the TEAM? If so there is nothing unpleasant for them.
There is just more noise made whenever the Patriots "do" something or are alleged to do so.

It has to do with the success of the team, as all teams who do very well over an extended period of time do.
It has to do with un-likability of the head coach and his jerk attitude.
It has to do with the dislike of the QB.

For people to use the spygate excuse is lame. The did something they were not supposed to do. The violated a rule and were punished.

There is not enough tin foil in the world to cover all the heads of the people who think that they could grab signals (albeit legal but from an unallowed vantage point) then disseminate this information to use in the 2nd half.

Can you imagine how the internet would have crashed if the Patriots were involved with the Saints mess or the Dolphins crap from last year?

If the Patriots did anything wrong here they will be penalized. That's how rules work.

[exitmusicblue]

I think part of what keeps fanning the flames against thr Pats is the "world is out to get us" reactionism of their fans. They look like raving lunatics from the outside.

I personally had nearly forgotten about spygate. It's been eight years. But this pissed me off precisely in the same way that law violators who do wrong twice piss off society. There's enough controversy regarding rule interpretations, questionable penalties etc. game by game. Something like this just turns off fans of the game. What's the point of playing if one team gets to use a ball it modified?

[pac213up]

What's the point of playing if one team gets to use a ball it modified?

Why not ask Aaron Rodgers?

[mgugs46]

A blurb from this article: Did the Patriots Cheat Against the Colts? Deflategate Explained | Bleacher Report (http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/2336017-did-the-patriots-cheat-against-the-colts-deflategate-explained)


Three important things here:

First: The NFL provides the ball officials. We call them ball boys. They wear the maroon league NFL shirts. Ball gets thrown to them on the sideline, they hold it and keep it in their pouch. Again, to repeat, the NFL provides these guys. They are not team appointed, so for this to be really true, the ball official would have to be compromised by the Patriots. I find that impossible to believe.

I can't stress this enough and need to say it again: In order for this story to be true, the ball official would have had to been bribed, or tricked. I doubt either happened. Highly.

It's more likely, if the ball was under-inflated, it was a mistake. This leads to my next point.

Second: An NFL kicker told me this week that it's highly common for footballs to be flat. He said he's switched out footballs many times in his career not because of cheating but because of inflation problems to begin with.

Third: How in the hell would the Patriots be able to deflate a football during the game, or secretly switch one out, without anyone seeing it? I guess it's possible, but seems very Area 51-ish.

The fact that this is still a story amazes me almost as much as the fact that Seth Rogan's tweet is still a story.

[SaveMeTheGum]

A blurb from this article: Did the Patriots Cheat Against the Colts? Deflategate Explained | Bleacher Report (http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/2336017-did-the-patriots-cheat-against-the-colts-deflategate-explained)




The fact that this is still a story amazes me almost as much as the fact that Seth Rogan's tweet is still a story.

It's only a story because it's the Patriots. If it was any other team, non-story.

[jlzinck]

They look like raving lunatics from the outside.
?

And this is what you tin foil nutjobs look like to Patriots fans and the average fan.

[Grid]

New England could end up being fined, and Kravitz said a source told him the league might even strip the Patriots of draft picks if it's found they deflated footballs after the officials inspected them before the game.

[Grid]

I know Pats fan will still say the Colts got whipped on no matter what. But IF the Patriots submitted balls before kickoff to be inspected and THEN deflated them they knew it was cheating and wrong.

I think the Pats are the better team here and would have won no matter what. I dont think the outcome of the game would have hinged on the balls. But it still doesnt make it "legal" to do.

[kevinh1919]

I know Pats fan will still say the Colts got whipped on no matter what. But IF the Patriots submitted balls before kickoff to be inspected and THEN deflated them they knew it was cheating and wrong.

I think the Pats are the better team here and would have won no matter what. I dont think the outcome of the game would have hinged on the balls. But it still doesnt make it "legal" to do.

Tom Brady doesn't run onto the field with his personal football of choice from the NFL employee.

An official brings them into play and can ask for replacements if they are "substandard".

:cool:

[jlzinck]

New England could end up being fined, and Kravitz said a source told him the league might even strip the Patriots of draft picks if it's found they deflated footballs after the officials inspected them before the game.

And that is exactly what happened. If the ball boy was a Patriots employee I would feel stronger.

[pac213up]

New England could end up being fined, and Kravitz said a source told him the league might even strip the Patriots of draft picks if it's found they deflated footballs after the officials inspected them before the game.

Doubt it. They did nothing to the Panthers.

[mgugs46]

From another board ... a list of all the nonsense


(1) The Tuck Rule. Clearly the correct call *according to the rule*. That nobody likes the rule is immaterial.

(2) Taping the Rams' walkthrough. Which never happened, but whatever.

(3) Spygate. Violating a technical rule. Many coaches came to BB's defense (Johnson, Cowher, etc.), saying that this stuff is commonplace.

(4) Illegal formations. Which, of course, weren't illegal at all.

(5) Ref helping the Pats out on an extra point. Which, of course, happens fairly regularly, but whatever.

(6) Underinflated footballs. Good grief.

(7) The TV in the Pats' parking lot.

(8) The Pats *still* stealing signals. Even though teams use headsets and not signals.

(9) Communication problems in Foxboro. BB and crew interrupting the radios of the opponents.


Anything else?

[BostonNut]

From another board ... a list of all the nonsense

Anything else?


Yup:

The Tom Br...errrr Carson Palmer....errr wait no....Tom Brady rule where you can't hit QB's low...as Mr. Rosenburg "correctly" pointed out happened to Brady during the 2006 season.

[mgugs46]

A feW more ...
(10) Complaints about Kraft somehow manipulating the NFL schedule so the Pats get to play certain teams at home year after year. Uh…what?

(11) Hiring McDaniels right before the playoffs after Denver fired him. Uh, that was *legal*!

(12) Somehow cheating to get LeGarrette Blount to quit the Steelers so they could snag him for nothing again. LOL.

(13) Running up the score. Oh brother.

[Grid]

Tom Brady doesn't run onto the field with his personal football of choice from the NFL employee.

An official brings them into play and can ask for replacements if they are "substandard".

:cool:

True, but you left out where the official takes them from the Patriots pile... :)!

There isnt a "game ball" locker. Both teams have their own balls and those are brought into play for them. The Pats would have never gotten a ball from the colts locker. Only the kicking balls are new and sealed before the game.

[BostonNut]

And you also left out where multiple officials touch the balls before and after every play. How come D'Qwell Jackson was able to tell a ball was flat but not the linesman or backjudge who handled the ball before and after the play? :confused:

This is all so confusing...

True, but you left out where the official takes them from Patriots pile... :)!

[Andrew Jones]

And you also left out where multiple officials touch the balls before and after every play. How come D'Qwell Jackson was able to tell a ball was flat but not the linesman or backjudge who handled the ball before and after the play? :confused:

This is all so confusing...

Source: Several abnormal balls were removed from Colts-Pats game | ProFootballTalk (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/01/19/source-several-abnormal-balls-were-removed-from-colts-pats-game/)

[BostonNut]

Ah...thanks.

Source: Several abnormal balls were removed from Colts-Pats game | ProFootballTalk (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/01/19/source-several-abnormal-balls-were-removed-from-colts-pats-game/)

[BostonNut]

We will know in two or three days:

It Is What It Is » NFL Executive VP of Football Operations: Deflategate investigation to be done in 2-3 days (http://itiswhatitis.weei.com/sports/newengland/football/patriots/2015/01/20/nfl-executive-vp-of-football-operations-deflategate-investigation-to-be-done-in-2-3-days/)

[BostonNut]

On second thought that does not explain why the official allowed that ball to be put into play in the first place...

If D'Qwell Jackson could notice it, certainly the back judge who was massaging the ball with a towel to keep it dry before the snap would have noticed it.

I am back to being confused...

Source: Several abnormal balls were removed from Colts-Pats game | ProFootballTalk (http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/01/19/source-several-abnormal-balls-were-removed-from-colts-pats-game/)

[Andrew Jones]

On second thought that does not explain why the official allowed that ball to be put into play in the first place...

If D'Qwell Jackson could notice it, certainly the back judge who was massaging the ball with a towel to keep it dry before the snap would have noticed it.

I am back to being confused...

It isn't like they substituted a basketball for a football or were playing with a flat football. Taking 1 PSI out of a football makes a subtle difference, especially to someone who throws a football for a living, but it's not such a big difference that every official should immediately notice there was an issue, especially when they aren't feeling up the ball like it's Kate Upton's bosom because nobody expects a team to be messing with the pressure of the footballs during the course of a game.

[BostonNut]

So a defensive player who touches a ball...once maybe twice a game noticed it but not an official who touches them 200+ times a game?

Sorry my man...not buying what you are selling.

It isn't like they substituted a basketball for a football or were playing with a flat football. Taking 1 PSI out of a football makes a subtle difference, especially to someone who throws a football for a living, but it's not such a big difference that every official should immediately notice there was an issue, especially when they aren't feeling up the ball like it's Kate Upton's bosom because nobody expects a team to be messing with the pressure of the footballs during the course of a game.

[pac213up]

It isn't like they substituted a basketball for a football or were playing with a flat football. Taking 1 PSI out of a football makes a subtle difference, especially to someone who throws a football for a living, but it's not such a big difference that every official should immediately notice there was an issue, especially when they aren't feeling up the ball like it's Kate Upton's bosom because nobody expects a team to be messing with the pressure of the footballs during the course of a game.

The officials handle each ball before the game to ensure they are within specs. I would guess they know what a ball within spec looks and feels like. These are the guys that give the final approval for the ball to be used to begin with.

[MLH]

Is there any explanation as to what this investigation might involve and how long it might take?

[BostonNut]

Post #240...

Is there any explanation as to what this investigation might involve and how long it might take?

[Andrew Jones]

So a defensive player who touches a ball...once maybe twice a game noticed it but not an official who touches them 200+ times a game?

Sorry my man...not buying what you are selling.

The officials did notice it though, hence the several balls being removed from the game. Perhaps every ball wasn't deflated? Perhaps the pressures weren't altered until the second quarter? I have no idea and I'm withholding judgment until the NFL comes to a decision. It just seems like every Pats fan in this thread knows exactly what happened already which is amazing to me.

[trixstar]

Is there any explanation as to what this investigation might involve and how long it might take?

I would assume it involves investigating the balls that were removed and weighting them and measuring the pressure in them.. the majority of the time is probably spend figuring out the penalty if it turns out to be true.

[BostonNut]

But THE ball that kicked off the whole thing was put into play by an official....not tossed out. That doesn't add up.

I am withholding judgement as well but in my opinion this whole thing cannot possibly happen without the officials being a part of the cover up...they put the balls in play!! How can that be argued?

The officials did notice it though, hence the several balls being removed from the game. Perhaps every ball wasn't deflated? Perhaps the pressures weren't altered until the second quarter? I have no idea and I'm withholding judgment until the NFL comes to a decision. It just seems like every Pats fan in this thread knows exactly what happened already which is amazing to me.

[MLH]

Post #240...

Ic. For what it's worth I hope they're waterboarding everyone on the Pat's sideline that day until we get to the bottom of this.