Here's my point: Goodell needlessly gave the media hysteria credence by announcing this wide-ranging investigation (40 freaking interviews and a forensic detective?) like they had uncovered a domestic terrorist cell. This fanned the (already unnecessary) flames by overreacting to the overreaction! He could've taken a much more subdued and calming approach in reasonable proportion to the alleged offense. Something a la, "Yes, in this season as well as seasons past, the issue of minor football manipulation has arisen from time to time. We'll look into this particular case, and others, with an eye toward possibly adjusting procedures going into next season. While disconcerting to us, we don't feel it led to any competitive advantage or disadvantage in the game involved."
Instead, we have a MAJOR SCANDAL being investigated by FORENSIC SPECIALISTS because THE INTEGRITY OF OUR GAME IS AT STAKE. This silliness has led national news broadcasts where millions of people who never watch football now know the New England Patriots as EVIL CHEATERS.
Goodell needs to be fired. He should've been fired months ago.