Spy Gate – Significant Advantage or Much Ado About Nothing

Did the Patriots break the rules? Yes. Did the Patriots cheat? Yes. Did it help them gain an advantage on the field? That is the real point of contention. I believe that it did help them on the field. If you know the defense is going to blitz, you call a screenplay. If you know the corner is coming, you exploit that side of the field. Of course, but the Patriots had to execute the play, but these are highly paid players expected to execute a play.

Think back to the Buccaneers and Raiders Super Bowl. The scuttlebutt after the game was that the Raiders were using the same audibles from when Jon Gruden coached there. The story goes that the coach gave the Buccaneer players a list of the Raider’s audibles. When the game was over, the Buccaneer defensive players said they knew what the Raiders were going to do and it looked like it as the Raiders were crushed that day. No one called this cheating, they said the Raiders were not to smart to use the same audibles that were used the previous year with the same coach from the previous year. The point here is that they knew what was coming and they used it to their advantage.

This is basically the same thing the Patriots were doing for SEVEN years.

Obviously this is all conjecture, but Ronde Barber said it best: "They're still a great football team, but they're a lot better with an ace up their sleeve.'' I agree. It is quite an advantage to know what the other team will do during any given play.

My opinion did not change after watching a recent Matt Walsh interview, where Mr. Walsh did not tell us anything we did not know. Many people now say, he is a disgruntled employee, which may be true, but he did not seek out this publicity, the publicity found him. He was not calling out players, coaches, or doing push ups in his driveway to find this publicity. He was in another profession moving on with his life, but still kept his season tickets. Mr. Walsh claims to still be a fan of the team, although the Patriots have revoked his tickets. Talk about holding a grudge.

There are many analogies one can draw in this situation. If a boxer knows a punch is coming, he can bob and counter punch. When a pitcher tips his pitches, he ends up getting smacked around. If you know what is coming even a quarter of the time, it is a distinct advantage.

I’m upset that the clowns at ESPN insist that the Patriots gained no competitive advantage from this incident. Sure, they did not use the tape in the game that they filmed but when they played a team that they had previously filmed, that is when they gained an advantage.

When the Patriots play teams in their own division, they should do well with this logic. Let’s look at the numbers: In 2007, they went 4-2, 2006, 5-1, 2004, 5-1, 2003, 5-1, 2002, 4-2, 2001, 6-2 (5 team division) (29-9 6 in seasons). Their division record helped them win in 2001 and get home games in the playoffs. Gaining home field in even one playoff game is a huge advantage.

"If this wasn't New England, it wouldn't be that big of a deal,'' Braylon Edwards said. "If this had happened in Cleveland, it'd be a story, but not a big one.''

However, if you win three super bowls in seven years and you are caught cheating, you’ll probably have some ‘splaining to do.

It all comes down to the saying: winning is everything. Belichick should come out and say we tried everything we could to skirt the rules to gain a competitive advantage. Others were also doing this, with or without tapes, but people pay more attention to the Patriots because of their many Superbowl wins, but the truth is that most of the league tries to do something extra to gain a competitive advantage.

Charlie Weis, Romeo Crennel, and my boy wonder, Eric Mangini are from the Patriots’ coaching staff who directly parlayed their success into lucrative coaching careers. No doubt, these three men would have the most damaging insight into the taping scandal, but they have not spoken about it. I find their silence deafening!

The real problem is players do not want to end up on a bulletin board with comments saying the Patriots gained an advantage through this coaching tactic, since calling them out would likely motivate the Patriots to play harder against the outspoken team. This bulletin board tactic worked for the Pats last year, and I’m curious to see if they can do it this year in light of last year’s Super Bowl loss and all the continued media scrutiny. I expect we have not seen the last of this story.

Since writing this story a day ago, there is new evidence that a former Patriots player states on NFL Live on ESPN that Matt Walsh’s comments of players on the injured list participating in practices was correct. The former player also added that Belichick would do anything to gain a competitive advantage. Which is basically what I stated in how I felt Coach Belichick should have apologized for trying to “skirt the rules to gain what ever competitive advantage he could get”.

I am a long-suffering Jets fan and I do not hide the fact that I do not like the Patriots. I was furious when Bill Belichick left us high and dry after previously negotiating a contract to become the “HC of the NYJ” after Bill Parcels stepped down.

Most of my comments in this entry are in response to the interview with Matt Walsh on HBO Real Sports, Peter King’s column, my general knowledge of football, and reading a lot of stuff on the internet. I am, of course, a bitter Jets fan so take my comments with a grain of salt, but if I were a fan of the one of the teams playing the Pats in many of the playoff games, this videotaping scandal would drive me crazy.

Send your comments to andrew.carrara@ms.com.

From the Schu Box

Here we are with Memorial Day only a few days away and yet still football grabs the headlines at least a few times a week. It never ceases to amaze me just how popular the great game is and always makes me wonder why they don’t seriously look into a developmental league as discussed in this article in the NY Times.

Look at the interest even the idea of another level of football started to get and only imagine if it were affiliated with the NFL.

Here are just some thoughts on the hot issues currently going on in football and the world around it.

Taylor Saga

It seems like the Jason Taylor saga in Miami isn’t going to end anytime soon but I was wondering if a trade to a team that could use a player, who is going to create positive PR for them instead of negative, (say Atlanta or even better Cincinnati) would make sense. Seriously if I were the Bengals I would make a call to Big Bill just to see how steep a price it would be to bring in the former University of Akron star and Pittsburgh native to the Bengals. It would finally be a player for the Bengals who will generate good media attention instead and the leader the team desperately needs to straighten out the lockeroom.

What to do with Tampa’s QBs

You think Denver would be interested in one of the dozen QBs under contract in Tampa Bay just in case Jay Cutler struggles to deal with his diabetes or maybe they trust Patrick Ramsey a little more than the rest of the NFL. I think a guy like Bruce Gradkowski would make a lot of sense.

Owners Opt Out

It amazed me that the idea that a potential lockout in 2011 was such big news. Something tells me that they will have a new deal in place well before the 2011 season is a serious thought to NFL fans. Expect to see the rookie salaries and a 17th game be two issues that get addressed in the new contract.

Kudos to Jerry

Credit has to be given to the Cowboys especially Jerry Jones (since the national media seems blames him for everything that goes wrong in Big D might as well give him a little credit) for locking up Terrence Newman and Marion Barber to long term deals. Whenever Pacman joins the team, he and Newman could be a special tandem in the defensive backfield.

Eagles Clean House?

If reports regarding V.P. of player personal, Jason Licht, dismissal in Philadelphia are true, I look for him to land with one of the NFC East enemies of the Eagles. I think the Giants, Washington or Dallas might be interested in adding a guy with that knowledge of a divisional rival. Recently the Redskins and Cowboys have had some front office openings too so it would be a good bet he lands in one of those spots.

More People Pile on the Pats

I don’t know about the rest of you but I wasn’t surprised to read Ross Tucker’s account on what went on in New England during his time under Belicheater.

Time to Play Matchmaker

Below is a list of players either rumored to be traded or still free agents and I decided to match up possibly destination that make sense for both the players and the teams.

Chad Johnson---If they want to make a real run and get McNabb a ring before they push him out of town, they need to make the move and roll the dice again and add Chad to the team. He’s a clear #1 and makes Kevin Curtis and Reggie Brown that much better just being on the field. The Eagles have the picks (with the Carolina trade) and the window is slowly closing on the McNabb years.

Chris Simms—Simms needs a fresh start and a team that could always use another young arm since they haven’t had a decent QB since Len Dawson retired is the KC Chiefs. No one really believes that Damon Huard or Brodie Croyle is the answer if they are that makes you wonder what the question is. Simms is battled tested and certainly has the skills to compete for a starting role.

Matt Jones---I have to give credit to my buddy Chuck White for this but once he suggested it I really took to the idea. Matt Jones in Dallas just in case a Glenn doesn’t return and they need that third WR to make a tough catch in traffic. Jones is likely on the bubble in Jacksonville and could be gotten for a mid round 2009 pick. Big, tall, physical receiver that I’m sure boy genius Jason Garrett can find great ways to use him in their schemes.

Daunte Culpepper—is it just me or does he not seem like a great option for the Bears to bring in push Orton and Grossman and likely beat out for the job. He’s got a chip on his shoulder, is familiar with the division opponents and proved he still has a few miles left on the tires after last year in Oakland. Would be a great addition!!

Shaun Alexander---with Travis Henry always a risk to be suspended for a season after another bad drug test, Alexander makes great sense for Denver. He would give them a great 1-2 tandem if Henry stays clean if not he has certainly shown he can carry the load.

Sinorice Moss—you may say I didn’t hear any rumors about him but I believe he’ll get caught in a numbers game and may need a new start. What about St. Louis? With his speed playing indoors 8 games or more a year he can help fill the void of Isaac Bruce.

Anquan Boldin----With Arizona locking up Larry Fitzgerald they know they either have to give Boldin a contract to match or watch him walk. The wise thing would be to call a team like the NY Jets to see if they could work out a trade. Maybe a couple of picks (say a 2nd and 3rd) and maybe Brad Smith. Smith has a lot of Antwann Randle El in him and the Cards (with all the former Steelers on staff) could utilize him.

Byron Leftwhich---Might be a nice insurance policy for Carolina should Jake not stay healthy which then leaves only 2nd year man, Matt Moore, to man the starting position.

Lito Sheppard---Philly would be wise to make a final decision on Lito before camp gets rolling and something tells me you might get Cleveland to blink and give you a #2 for Lito. He’d be a huge upgrade for the Browns defense and Philly can use the additional pick(s) next year).


Feel free to send me your thoughts on this piece and the current state of the NFL.

Final Thoughts..2008 NFL Draft Part 1

I apologize for being M.I.A but after draft weekend I needed time to digest everything that happened and see where everyone landed. Now we can start to prepare for a slower time in football and the wait until camps get rolling in mid-July. Before we take any real break, I wanted to point out some players that didn’t necessarily go in round one but should make a significant impact on the team’s success very early in their career.

While first round picks have been diagnosed to death and the fact that I think giving a grade to unproven players is pretty much like trying to rank college recruiting classes (oh wait some people actually do that) I want to just share a little insight on some of these guys who stand out to me as a real steal for each team.

1. Buffalo: James Hardy…Big target the team desperately needed. Should make a huge impact for the Bills especially in the redzone.

2. Miami: Kendall Langford….Same school prospect that with the proper coaching he’ll receive should be a starter by 2009.

3. New England: Shawn Crable...Perfect spot for both player and team. Crable will thrive in their system.

4. NY Jets: Erik Ainge…At best may be long term answer for the Jets or at worse be the game manager needed for this team.

5. Baltimore: Tavares Gooden…Another perfect spot for player and team. Gooden will replace Lewis as the leader of the defense in a few years.

6. Cincinnati: Andre Caldwell…This teams needs to cut ties with Chad and getting Andre will make that much easier.

7. Cleveland: Paul Hubbard… The perfect eventual replacement for Joe Jurevicius in their scheme.

8. Pittsburgh: Tony Hills…This team needs offensive lineman and Hills could be a starter by the end of the year if not for certain in 2009.

9. Houston: Frank Okam…Massive player to clog up the middle of the line for them. Benefits staying in Texas to play pro career.

10. Indianapolis: Mike Hart…With the resigning of D. Rhodes, Hart will have to show good in camp but should secure a roster spot and contribute this season somewhere in the NFL.

11. Jacksonville: Trae Williams…Talented corner who was overshadowed by M. Jenkins but in their scheme should develop into a starter in the next two years.

12. Tennessee: LaVelle Hawkins…Another player overshadowed by a teammate, D. Jackson, but with the improv skills of Vince Young and the fact they need wide receivers Hawkins should get plenty of playing time earlier this season.

13. Denver: Carlton Powell…With the lack of talent on the line Carlton could hit the field early and often.

14. Kansas City: Kevin Robinson….Should provide that kick return threat missing since Dante Hall was dumped to St. Louis.

15. Oakland: Tyvon Branch…With the holdout of Nnamdi Asomugha , the combustible DeAngelo Hall, the trading of Fabian Washington and the slightly overrated Stanford Routt you might see Branch getting a lot of time on the field earlier next year.

16. San Diego: DeJuan Tribble..a steal at the point they were able to get him. San Diego realizes that you can never have enough top quality corners.

Final Thoughts...2008 NFL Draft Part II

17. Dallas: Tashard Choice…With the possible holdout of Marion Barber, the Cowboys where wise to grab not only Felix Jones but a bruiser back like Choice who gives them a nice insurance policy should Barber get injured.

18. NY Giants: Andre Woodson…Great pickup by the Giants as they can work on his flaws and develop him into a quality #2 QB. Look for him to eventually get shopped like the Packers did all those years behind Favre.

19. Philadelphia: Jake Ikegwuonu….Likely will miss the whole season but if fully recovered you are looking at second talent and the eventual replacement to Sheldon Brown.

20. Washington: Durant Brooks....The top punter by many and finally someone to secure that spot and give the Redskins a bonus on special teams.

21. Chicago: Earl Bennett….Solid dependable receiver who should be a day 1 starter. A perfect #2 on any team.

22. Detroit: Cliff Avril….The hybrid player who should only get better with NFL coaching. Avril will a great addition to the improving defense.

23. Green Bay: Brian Brohm…The most game ready QB coming out this season. Lack of superior arm strength may hurt a little in GB but by 2009 should push hard for the starting spot. Aaron Rodgers has little room to slip up.

24. Minnesota: John Sullivan…Outstanding value pick. Should replace Matt Birk by 2009 and start for the Vikes for the next 10-12 years.

25. Atlanta: Harry Douglas…A perfect slot receiver for Matt Ryan. Should become a favorite target for the young QB.

26. Carolina: Dan Connor…Another great value pick that teaming with Beason gives the Panthers two young, hungry linebackers to lead their defense for the next dozen years.

27. New Orleans: Adrian Arrington…This late in the draft was a great steal. With some questions at WR and besides Colston no one really stepping forward Arrington has a chance to grow into a #2 or #3 receiver by 2009.

28. Tampa Bay: Dre Moore…Bucs need weight on the DL (see Brandon Jacobs weighing more than all defensive linemen). Moore is a solid worker who should grow with NFL coaching.

29. Arizona: Calais Campbell….Has the God-given ability to be a true disruptive force in the NFL. Got stuck on mediocre Miami teams but with just a little tweaking he’ll be a taller version of Julius Peppers (before he stunk).

30. St. Louis: Roy Schuening….The Rams need offensive linemen and more offensive linemen and Roy is a battled test player who should contend for a starting role this season.

31. San Francisco: Reggie Smith…This was a smart pick of a solid player. Great teams aren’t just built on superstars but guys that can excel and be team players. Smith is going to be a great addition to the Bay Area.

32. Seattle: Red Bryant….Perfect run stopping clog with an appreciation of Seahawk tradition (his Father-in-law is former Seahawks great Jacob Green). Should be a starter no later than 2009.

Some other interesting signings of players that will likely find a roster spot in the NFL (it might not necessarily be with the initial team that signed them) but they’ll be playing on Sundays this year somewhere in the NFL (active roster or practice squad):

Dolphins WR Davone Bess (Hawaii), Eagles FB Jed Collins (Washington State), Bears QB Caleb Hanie (Colorado State),Bills DT Teraz McCray (Miami, FL), Vikings S Husain Abdullah (Washington State), Vikings S Marcus Griffin (Texas), Vikings LB Erin Henderson (Maryland),Vikings Jeremy "J" Leman (Illinois),Vikings T Drew Radovich (USC),Saints DE Jeremy Geathers (UNLV), Saints WR Evan Moore (Stanford),Jaguars QB Paul Smith (Tulsa), Jaguars CB Michael Grant (Arkansas), Jaguars OL Drew Miller (Florida), Falcons CB Glenn Sharpe (Miami, FL), Falcons S D.J. Wolfe (Oklahoma),Cardinals T Thaddeus Coleman (Mississippi Valley State),Cardinals LB Ali Highsmith (LSU),Jets DE Bryan Mattison (Iowa), Bengals DB Simeon Castille (Alabama), Bengals OL Justin Britt (Alabama),Browns RB Austin Scott (Penn State), Browns K Jason Reda (Illinois),Browns WR Lance Leggett (Miami, FL) Browns RB Tony Temple (Missouri),Browns CB Darnell Terrell (Missouri),Browns DE Chase Ortiz (TCU), Browns OL Eric Young (Tennessee),49ers TE Joe Jon Finley (Oklahoma),49ers LB Ezra Butler (University of Nevada),49ers S D.J. Parker (Virginia Tech), Buccaneers DB Jonathan Hefney (Tennessee), Broncos RB Anthony Alridge (Houston),Broncos LB Wesley Woodyard (Kentucky), Seahawks S Jamar Adams (Michigan), Cowboys WR Danny Amendola (Texas Tech), Cowboys DT Marcus Dixon (Hampton), Cowboys DE Darrell Robertson (Georgia Tech),Redskins OL Devin Clark (New Mexico),Redskins S Kevin Mitchell (Illinois), Redskins S Justin Scott (Purdue),Packers RB Kregg Lumpkin (Georgia), Packers WR Taj Smith (Syracuse),Packers TE Joey Haynos (Maryland), Texans LB Ben Moffitt (USF), Titans WR Jason Rivers (Hawaii) Titans S Tony Joiner (Florida), Titans RB Rafael Little (Kentucky), Titans OL Fernando Velasco (Georgia), Titans DT Barry Booker (Virginia Tech), Colts DT Eric Foster (Rutgers), Colts DB Jamie Silva (Boston College), Chiefs QB Ricky Santos (New Hampshire), Chiefs WR Luke Swan (Wisconsin), Chiefs FB Mike Cox (Georgia Tech), Chiefs DL Johnny Dingle (West Virginia), Chiefs WR Sean Bailey (Georgia), Patriots DT Chris Norwell (Illinois), Giants DE Wallace Gilberry (Alabama), Giants OL Andrew Bain (Miami, FL), Giants WR DJ Hall (Alabama), Ravens G Adam Kraus (Michigan), Chargers G Andrew Crummey (Maryland),Steelers WR Micah Rucker (Eastern Illinois), Steelers LB Donovan Woods (Oklahoma State), Rams LB Vince Hall (Virginia Tech), Raiders TE Darrell Strong (Pittsburgh), Lions S Bobbie Williams (Bethune-Cookman)


Well, there you have it my final thoughts on the 2008 NFL Draft. While there aren’t any games being played there is a lot of stuff to still talk about so drop me a line and check back often.