PHOENIX – It was a courtroom like atmosphere on Friday in Phoenix as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodelll spoke for roughly 48 minutes during his scheduled press conference ahead of Super Bowl XLIX. Goodelll was much more humble and contrite during his first major exposure to the media since the Ray Rice videotape scandal. Goodelll discussed “Deflate-Gate,” expanding instant replay, extending PAT attempts, Marshawn Lynch and the possibility of an NFL franchise in Los Angeles during his time on the podium.
Of all the topics touched on by the Commissioner, Deflate-Gate was clearly the one that dominated most of the media attention. What all in attendance wanted to know was if the NFL had found any hard evidence that the New England Patriots intentionally deflated 11 footballs during the AFC Championship game against the Indianapolis Colts, and if they did, what the punishment would be.
Goodelll made it clear that the NFL was conducting a “thorough and objective investigation” which was being led by Ted Wells who also conducted the investigation into the Richie Incognito bullying scandal in the Miami Dolphins locker room in 2013.
The New England Patriots and head coach Bill Belichick are being accused of deflating 11 footballs below the NFL mandated 12.5 psi during the AFC Championship game against the Indianapolis Colts. In his press conference Goodelll said that the investigation hinges on two fundamental questions: “Why were some footballs used in the game that were not in compliance with the rules, and was this the result of a deliberate action?”
“We take seriously anything that potentially impacts the integrity of the game,” said Goodelll. “We have rules. We’re a league of rules. Everyone expects us to follow those rules. We’re going to enforce the rules and we will hold the head coach accountable.”
With the last revelation, it is likely that if the league can prove the Patriots tampered with the footballs in question that they would come down hard on Belichick and the team. After the yearlong suspension imposed upon New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton after “Bounty-Gate” it is more than possible that a significant fine and suspension could be waiting for Belichick and the Patriots.
Las Vegas is getting in on Deflate-Gate and the possibility of a suspension for Belichick as well as sportsbooks in Sin City currently have the odds of Belichick getting suspended for at least one game at -200 moneyline.
In addition to discussing Deflate-Gate, the Commissioner also discussed instant replay on penalty calls, the new League Conduct policy on domestic violence and sexual assault, and Marshawn Lynch.
“Marshawn understands the importance of the Super Bowl,” added Goodelll. “I’ve been very clear that when you’re in the NFL you have an obligation to the fans. It’s part of your job. And there are things we all have to do in our jobs that we may not necessarily want to do. It may not be at the top of his list. Everyone else is cooperating and doing their part. It is our obligation. It comes with the territory. It comes with the privilege of playing.”
Goodelll was addressing Lynch’s combative and stubborn attitude taken towards the media. On Tuesday at the NFL Media Day Lynch sat at the podium for an hour answering every question with the same response: “I’m just here so I won’t get fined.”
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