After it was discovered that 11 of the 12 game balls used by the New England Patriots during their victory against the Seattle Seahawks were deflated, the media created a new-found obsession over the PSI of a football, in a scandal dubbed "deflategate."
Michigan Radio sports commentator John U. Bacon says the story has been blown out of proportion, with coverage of the topic continuing over a week after the initial game (yes, we get the irony).
"My strong hunch is that probably every team does this," says Bacon.
He recounts seeing University of Michigan quarterbacks playing with inflation needles in their wristbands so they could sneak air out of the ball during games.
Bacon suggests the overblown coverage (har har) has continued because it involves the Patriots, a team so many love to hate. While the prolonged media attention is bad for the NFL's public image, Bacon believes it still shouldn't change anything.
"If you're that concerned about the footballs, then have the referees in charge. Have one bin of balls for everybody," Bacon says.
As for the upcoming game, Bacon says while the Patriots are dealing with the media it may give more time for Seattle to prepare for the game. But he still predicts the Patriots will win.
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