This is a fine article and represents the views of many, many patriot fans. His analysis is excellent. He reflects the likely position of belichick very well. And he advises that rules violations are no big deal. Just pay up when you get caught. The last sentence tells the tale. In the end, the writer is just concerned with the product on Sunday.
Personally, I thought that this is much more the philosophy of Al Davis than Robert Kraft. I understand that position. I lived in California in the 60's and 70's. George Blanda was my hero. And Al Davis was a great, great owner. Times have changed. Davis is senile. And the league has changed. It is a profitable business, watched by all, with 24 hour coverage. I have chosen to be a patriot fan since 1979. I plan to be one for another 28 years. I've seen the good, the bad and the ugly. This is the best talent we've ever had. This is best coaching and ownership that we've ever had. The rivalry we have with the colts may be one of the best of all time.
Everone asks why I am so negative this week. It's simple. For me, I cannot understand why Belichick finds the need to bend and break rules in order to gain advantage. I don't see why he feels the need to be antagonistic toward the media, including the local press. I don't see why he finds the need to undermine the leadership of the NFL at a time when Kraft is trying so hard to support the Commissioner. And I do not see why he allows feuds with coaches in Minny and New York to affect his public behavior.
Belichick may be the best coach in the history of football, coaching one of the very best dynasties in the history of football. And yet, this is not enough. Belichick finds the need to get the extra edge. And we say it doesn't matter. It doesn't affect the game. Well, perhaps it does. What the country is saying is that perhaps this type of behavior is an integral part of the patriots success, ehich would be fine if we were the Raiders. I just don't think we should need to break rules to win.