Metaphors
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Metaphors
Just a few things, Goodell could have done differently.
All good and logical points, but if you play out the scenarios they probably weren't options for Goodell:
1.How about punishing the Pats with a fine and loss of third round draft pick which is the standard penalty for rules violations.
In a draft where the Pats had two 1's and two 3's, that wouldn't have been much of a punishment. The cries of cover-up and questioning competitive integrity would have been overwhelming. You may not care, but it is Goodell's job to make sure the image of the league is strong.
BTW, I believe that your scenario is what Belichick considered to be the worst-case scenario if he got punished. He completely underestimated the fallout in the media and that was his real sin. Belichick was punished for the consequences of his actions...not the actions themselves. More on this below.
2.How about saying it was it was a rules violation that other teams had done in the past
He didn't have any evidence to show it. Outside of Jimmy Johnson, I don't recall too many others jumping to Belichick's defense. I agree with your point but if Goodell said that, it would be seen as justification for cheating.
3. How about conducting an investigation of who leaked the tapes to Fox TV.
Goodell tried to investigate the leak but she threatened to invoke her right of first refusal...wink, wink.
4. How about punishing the Jets after they were exposed taping the Pats without permission
Your best point and it gets to the heart of the matter. If the confiscated tape showed the Jets' cheerleaders and various fan shots, the Pats likely would have only been reprimanded and fined...even though the same rule would have be violated. Taping signals brought into question the competitive integrity of the NFL and that is why the punishment was so severe.
For the Jets to be equally punished, you would need a confiscated tape with coaching signals on it. I don't believe the Pats brand image would be enhanced by playing hardball gotcha tactics with the Jets...and that image is important to both Goodell and Kraft.
5.How about closing the case when they realized after investigating Walsh that he was a liar and thief
Yeah, that would work. Walsh says he has damaging evidence and Goodell refuses to let him speak. Can you imagine the consequences of that decision? That would be the single dumbest move possible.
6. How about saying now the case is closednow
I believe the statement will be pretty much the same as the one made after the initial punishment came down. The investigation is complete but reserve the right to reopen should any new evidence arise. Goodell can't possibly say that the case is closed even in the face of evidence of additional violations. Like it or not, Belichick is on double secret probation. Any new issues come up and he will be punished more severely than if the same evidence showed up against another team.
As I said, you make good points. If Goodell were in a position to say FU to the media, he would likely have done exactly what you suggest. However, Goodell is responsible for maintaining a positive image of the league and has to act accordingly.