For the Record Lovers

Setting and breaking records is a part of every professional sport. They give information-hungry fans and commentators something exciting to talk about, and they even provide marketers and PR people with new angles and that "wow factor" to attract attention to their team if used wisely.

As of last night, Patriots fans, watchers of football in general, and commentators can continue the discussion of the Pats’ journey towards that shining “perfect season,” a feat that has yet to be replicated since the Miami Dolphins finished 17-0 in 1972. The question is, after their close call last night at home in Foxborough against what some would consider a lackluster Philadelphia team, is the discussion and hype premature? Have the Patriots fully displayed their dominance throughout the season and are on their way to obtaining a record that should be rightfully theirs? After being in Boston this weekend, I noticed a good number of New Englanders that would openly and loudly agree with my second question. I, for one, believe in the ability to jinx a good thing and feel compelled to keep my thoughts to myself while letting the action speak for itself on the field. Can I deny that it would be exciting to watch a “perfect season” unfold before my eyes? Definitely not. Would I already proclaim that a “perfect season” is on its way? Not necessarily.

Let’s not forget where our once-“perfect season” Miami Dolphins find themselves currently. After tonight, the Patriots may not be the only ones continuing their quest for an NFL record. Will they make it to 0-11 or even 0-16? On this subject, I am simply keeping my mouth shut.

Brady's a Babe

Recently, Patriot’s quarterback Tom Brady was approached by Calvin Klein to be the new face of the CK underwear line. Rumor has it; there is a $1,000,000 deal in the works. If you were Brady, would you take the deal? First, let’s analyze Brady’s situation a little closer.

• 3 Super Bowl titles




• Playing for the best team in the NFL




• Current record is 9-0




• Dating Giselle Bundchen, a Victoria Secret Angel

Life isn’t exactly bad for Tom Brady. So why not expand his resume, and add underwear model to the list. If the price is right, Tom Brady should take the deal.

Playing the role of the supportive girlfriend, Giselle thinks it’s a great idea. In fact, I don’t know any woman that would object to such a decision. But what would this do to his image? Would it affect his career? Looking back, there have been many other people who had to make a similar decision. Michael Jordan was the poster-boy for Haines. Later, Kevin Bacon joined Jordan in the Haines campaign. It is very common for athletes, actors, and actresses to make these types of transitions.

I am all for Tom Brady working for Calvin Klein. If anything it will be a memorable experience. Who would have thought Giselle would have such an impact on the future of Tom Brady?

Is the Patriots "Scandal" Being Overhyped?

In a matter of a weeks time, the New England Patriots have gone from the NFL's model franchise to cheats. Who knew that video taping the opposing teams signals could tarnish 3 Super Bowl victories and a coaches legacy. Is it really that big of deal? Do other teams around the league do it too? Is stealing signals just another form of gamesmanship in order to give your team the best chance to win?

At this point, none of those reasons are good enough to excuse the Patriots and Bill Belichick from what they did. People around the country have been waiting for an opportunity to dethrone the Patriots and this is their chance. Belichick has not been liked nationally since he left the Jets to coach the Patriots. I'm sure Belichick haters around the country were salivating when they heard that he was caught. People need to be honest with themselves and realize that they are scrutinizing the Patriots not only for the video taping, but also because of their genuine dislike for Belichick and his team. If it was Herm Edwards caught cheating, would there be as much of a hoopla?

It has been said on ESPN and other media outlets that the Patriots are probably not the only team that has taped other teams signals on the sidelines. However, since they were caught, the Patriots are therefore the cheats and their past wins should be questioned. How does this logic make any sense at all? Yea it is impossible to prove that other teams have been doing this as well, but there have been hints from coaches, players, and former players around the league that this is a more common occurrence then we may think.

Yes the Patriots were wrong to do this and yes Bill Belichick was not very smart to try this stunt on Eric Mangini, but I think fans and the media are blowing this way out of proportion. The Steelers Heinze Ward even had the audacity to say that the Patriots playoff win in 2001 should be questioned. Come on Heinze, you know that your team was beat fair and square, get over it. The Patriots are on the ground, bleeding, and people are taking every chance they can to get a shot at them.