Patriots head coach Bill Belichick wasn't exactly in great spirits after Sunday's 25-17 loss to the Steelers, and addressed some of the questions that came up after the game.
One big question that was on everyone's mind was the fact that the team didn't challenge an 8-yard catch by Rob Gronkowski down on the goal line in the fourth quarter that replays showed was a touchdown.
 Belichick said after Sunday's game that he couldn't see the play well enough to challenge Gronkowski's potential touchdown. (FILE:Icon/SMI) |
The play was a big one because while New England did go on to score on a touchdown pass to Aaron Hernandez, it came nearly two minutes after what would have been one by Gronkowski.
"I thought about it, but there was no evidence to say to challenge it," said Belichick after the game. "I mean I certainly couldn't see it from my angle, and I don't believe they replayed the play in the box."
They didn't show the replay until several plays later, and by then it was obviously too late.
Unfortunately New England could have used those two minutes, because the next time they got the football back was with less than twenty seconds left. Not nearly enough time for Brady to work his magic on an improbable come back.
It's tough to blame Belichick on that one. From the initial angle it was tough to see whether or not he had gotten in, and CBS unfortunately took too much time to replay it to allow him to make that call.
More News Headlines:
Vrabel Hints at Potential Celebration for 2001 Patriots Team
By: Ian LogueMike Vrabel hints at a celebration for the 2001 Patriots team this season. He discusses Adam Vinatieri's Hall of Fame induction and his clutch kicks.
Vrabel on Patriots’ Special Teams Ace’s Injury: ‘Unique Role’ Complicates Return
By: Ian LoguePatriots' Brenden Schooler's injury status is uncertain. Mike Vrabel emphasizes caution for the special teams ace's 'unique role', delaying his return.
Mike Vrabel Provides Injury Update on Patriots CB Carlton Davis
By: Ian LoguePatriots coach Mike Vrabel confirms Carlton Davis will miss next week's joint practices and first preseason game due to a hamstring injury.
Drake Maye vs Tommy DeVito: Maye Comes Up Short in Patriots’ Blue-White Scrimmage
By: Ian LogueDrake Maye's white team fell short against Tommy DeVito's blue team in a competitive Patriots scrimmage. DeVito impressed while Maye had a slow start.
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference Transcript 8/7
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Friday, August 7, 2026.