By TOM GREENE, Staff Reporter.
After the Patriots victory over the Colts Jan. 18, there were accusations of the Patriots deflating their footballs by 2 PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) per football in order to gain an advantage over the other team.
In an NFL game, teams bring their own footballs inflated to the standard rate of between 12.5 and 13.5 PSI. At halftime, (although this wasn’t released until Wednesday) referee Walt Anderson found that 11 of the 12 footballs were inflated between 10.5 and 11.5 PSI, 2 PSI below the standards. According to NFL analysts, including Steve Young, former Niners quarterback, the deflated footballs give a slight advantage to the QB because they have slightly more pigskin to grip onto, making throws more accurate.
Both coach Bill Belichick and Tom Brady made statements Thursday saying that they had no idea the footballs were being tampered with. Brady said, “I’ve always played within the rules.”
Here’s my opinion on the situation.
The final score of the game was 45-7 in favor of New England. Running back LeGarrette Blount ran for 3 touchdowns in the game. Patriots cornerback Brandon Browner tweeted, “For my 2cents Blount scored three rushing touchdowns. He could’ve carried a beach ball. Also doesn’t hurt we only gave up 7 points #inflatethis”
I agree with him.
The deflated footballs have nothing to do with Blount rushing for three touchdowns. Seeing as the Patriots only gave up seven points, Blount theoretically outscored the entire Colts team.
Also, if Belichick and Brady are saying they didn’t know about the situation, (and they are telling the truth, which I believe they are) then they shouldn’t be to blame. A ball boy should be blamed and fired if that is the case.
Believe me, it’s not ok to cheat. But, in the media’s perspective, it’s also not ok to blow something out of proportion, like they’re doing here. Even if the touchdowns are taken off the board from the deflated footballs (which won’t happen, although we don’t know the punishment the Patriots will receive as of now), the score still reads 24-7. So, the Colts had more problems in that game than deflated footballs.
Do you agree or disagree with my opinion? Let me know by sending me a tweet. My Collegiate Twitter is @TomGreeneDC, and anyone is welcome to tweet me personally as well at @TomTV23.
