Comments on: HERALD APOLOGIZES FOR SUPER BOWL XXXVI STORY http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/ The Best Pro Football Scoop on the Internet Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:33:17 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.3.2 By: brian_21 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29790 brian_21 Thu, 15 May 2008 01:37:42 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29790 Funny Pats Fans and PFTiswhatitis, what's goin on? Is this, like, an episode of Will and Grace? In another language, of course. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXe_1meR0NA&feature=related Funny Pats Fans and PFTiswhatitis, what’s goin on? Is this, like, an episode of Will and Grace?

In another language, of course.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXe_1meR0NA&feature=related

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]]> By: PFTiswhatitis http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29729 PFTiswhatitis Wed, 14 May 2008 23:28:14 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29729 Funny Pats Fans, a Cheerleader, says: May 14th, 2008 at 11:20 am Pats fans are so cute. They’re all over themselves about this, but can’t see the biggest fact of all: that this newspaper, unlike their head coach, had the guts to come out and admit they were wrong. No cheesy little qualifiers, no loopholes, just responsibility taken. Is that really the biggest fact of all sweatheart? Maybe in your little world it is. The rest of the world understands the extent of the entire fiasco. Funny Pats Fans, a Cheerleader, says:
May 14th, 2008 at 11:20 am
Pats fans are so cute. They’re all over themselves about this, but can’t see the biggest fact of all: that this newspaper, unlike their head coach, had the guts to come out and admit they were wrong. No cheesy little qualifiers, no loopholes, just responsibility taken.

Is that really the biggest fact of all sweatheart? Maybe in your little world it is. The rest of the world understands the extent of the entire fiasco.

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]]> By: Noriega http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29557 Noriega Wed, 14 May 2008 19:19:21 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29557 The Herald is a tabloid rag. Who takes them seriously anyway? The Herald is a tabloid rag. Who takes them seriously anyway?

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]]> By: Funny Pats Fans http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29342 Funny Pats Fans Wed, 14 May 2008 15:20:37 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29342 Pats fans are so cute. They're all over themselves about this, but can't see the biggest fact of all: that this newspaper, unlike their head coach, had the guts to come out and admit they were wrong. No cheesy little qualifiers, no loopholes, just responsibility taken. I personally think the Herald should've come out and said "oops, sorry guys, it was all just a little misinterpretation of the rules." Now THAT would be poetic justice. Pats fans are so cute. They’re all over themselves about this, but can’t see the biggest fact of all: that this newspaper, unlike their head coach, had the guts to come out and admit they were wrong. No cheesy little qualifiers, no loopholes, just responsibility taken.

I personally think the Herald should’ve come out and said “oops, sorry guys, it was all just a little misinterpretation of the rules.” Now THAT would be poetic justice.

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]]> By: LiveNBreath Football http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29317 LiveNBreath Football Wed, 14 May 2008 14:43:48 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29317 For all the Conspiracy Theorists: Go look up "Occam's Razor." There is no tape of the walkthrough. A rumor that got blown into a big story which was later proven not true is the most plausible explanation. Conspiracy theories are the least plausible explanation because of their complexity. For all the Conspiracy Theorists: Go look up “Occam’s Razor.”

There is no tape of the walkthrough. A rumor that got blown into a big story which was later proven not true is the most plausible explanation. Conspiracy theories are the least plausible explanation because of their complexity.

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]]> By: kellyb9 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29293 kellyb9 Wed, 14 May 2008 14:20:24 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29293 Johny Corkrhan - sounds like you're just sour over a loss dealt to your team. Kidekk - The fine levied on the Patriots can't be erased by sueing the Herald. The Patriots were not fined for the story in the Herald - they were fined because they cheated. I'm a Patriots fan and I'll admit that. If you can hire someone to sit there and watch the defensive coordinator, then honestly, worse infractions have happened in the NFL. It may be a witch hunt, but if they had just stopped taping, then none of this would've happened. Suing the Herald would serve no purpose especially for the Patriots. The Herald has already lost this case in the court of public opinion. I doubt Tomase will be issued a press pass - so he can go off and cover major league soccer or something. Johny Corkrhan - sounds like you’re just sour over a loss dealt to your team.
Kidekk - The fine levied on the Patriots can’t be erased by sueing the Herald. The Patriots were not fined for the story in the Herald - they were fined because they cheated. I’m a Patriots fan and I’ll admit that. If you can hire someone to sit there and watch the defensive coordinator, then honestly, worse infractions have happened in the NFL. It may be a witch hunt, but if they had just stopped taping, then none of this would’ve happened.
Suing the Herald would serve no purpose especially for the Patriots. The Herald has already lost this case in the court of public opinion. I doubt Tomase will be issued a press pass - so he can go off and cover major league soccer or something.

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]]> By: Simdogga77 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29259 Simdogga77 Wed, 14 May 2008 13:42:29 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29259 Nice paper! What sets the Herald apart from a blogger.....NOTHING! Nice paper! What sets the Herald apart from a blogger…..NOTHING!

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]]> By: monger http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29243 monger Wed, 14 May 2008 13:30:29 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29243 Grow up people. Breaking of the rules happens every single game multiple times. Sometimes teams get away with it. Sometimes teams get caught. When they get caught there's yellow linen on the field. Anybody who knows anything about the game knows holding could be called every play but it isn't. Those guys who are holding are cheating because they're breaking the rules. Like I said, just grow up and quit whining about cheating. Grow up people. Breaking of the rules happens every single game multiple times. Sometimes teams get away with it. Sometimes teams get caught. When they get caught there’s yellow linen on the field. Anybody who knows anything about the game knows holding could be called every play but it isn’t. Those guys who are holding are cheating because they’re breaking the rules. Like I said, just grow up and quit whining about cheating.

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]]> By: bradyisgod http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29237 bradyisgod Wed, 14 May 2008 13:21:55 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29237 Are you really so naive as to believe there was no " malicious intent" in publishing this LIE the day before the biggest game any NFL team has played in the last 35 years. Are you really so naive as to believe there was no ” malicious intent” in publishing this LIE the day before the biggest game any NFL team has played in the last 35 years.

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]]> By: PFTiswhatitis http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29223 PFTiswhatitis Wed, 14 May 2008 13:06:37 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29223 Just more corroboration of what the Pats have been saying all along. Just more corroboration of what the Pats have been saying all along.

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]]> By: 1TruePatriot http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29215 1TruePatriot Wed, 14 May 2008 12:55:16 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29215 The Hearald will never sell another paper to THIS Patriot fan, apology <i>not</i> accepted. It is bad enough that they ran this drivel without substantiated FACTS. It sucks that they put journalistic integrity after fame and glory (how'd that feel Tomase? Fleeting, eh?) But the real cruelty of their actions is this: lifelong fans had to pause for a moment and think hard...<i>might</i> their beloved patriots have done something so egregious? The taping I can live with, it was only a matter of where the camera was, not that it was there in the first place. But the story obviously made me think. I LOVE this game, I love these players. I have been a pats fan since I was 5 years old in my Russ Francis nightgown...and they tried to take that from me. I know some fans who didnt have the fever as bad who they DID take it from. It didnt just hurt a business, the Krafts, or some obscure entity. It hurt little kids who had to face the taunts of classmates about "Cheatriots and Bellicheat", it hurt every single one of us who has had to stand and defend this team we LOVE from false, baseless allegations. I will never forget the Super Bowl we should have won, and I will never forget the hurt I felt for the guys who gave it everything they had until that day, and then seemed to have the wind sucked right out of them. They dare to try to tarnish a hero like Tedy Bruschi, to take any of what he has done, what Tom has done, and turn it into an asterisk? How DARE they. I hope the Herald sues Matt Walsh. Anyone who thinks he wasnt the source is nuts. The timing is way way too coincidental. "Nor did we speak to anyone who had" seems to me to be a slap at Walsh, meaning "he obviously DIDNT have the tape he claimed to have". He doesnt have immunity from them, too, does he? He lied, either to them or to the Commisioner. And they ran with it...a liar's words...and those words took the breath right away from hundreds of thousands of us. But guess what? we are breathing again, and this time it is fire coming through our noses. And there will be HELL to pay. They need to fire Tomase and the Editors who OK'd this, and then THEY can live with the consequences for awhile. The Hearald will never sell another paper to THIS Patriot fan, apology not accepted. It is bad enough that they ran this drivel without substantiated FACTS. It sucks that they put journalistic integrity after fame and glory (how’d that feel Tomase? Fleeting, eh?) But the real cruelty of their actions is this: lifelong fans had to pause for a moment and think hard…might their beloved patriots have done something so egregious? The taping I can live with, it was only a matter of where the camera was, not that it was there in the first place. But the story obviously made me think. I LOVE this game, I love these players. I have been a pats fan since I was 5 years old in my Russ Francis nightgown…and they tried to take that from me. I know some fans who didnt have the fever as bad who they DID take it from. It didnt just hurt a business, the Krafts, or some obscure entity. It hurt little kids who had to face the taunts of classmates about “Cheatriots and Bellicheat”, it hurt every single one of us who has had to stand and defend this team we LOVE from false, baseless allegations. I will never forget the Super Bowl we should have won, and I will never forget the hurt I felt for the guys who gave it everything they had until that day, and then seemed to have the wind sucked right out of them. They dare to try to tarnish a hero like Tedy Bruschi, to take any of what he has done, what Tom has done, and turn it into an asterisk? How DARE they.
I hope the Herald sues Matt Walsh. Anyone who thinks he wasnt the source is nuts. The timing is way way too coincidental. “Nor did we speak to anyone who had” seems to me to be a slap at Walsh, meaning “he obviously DIDNT have the tape he claimed to have”. He doesnt have immunity from them, too, does he? He lied, either to them or to the Commisioner. And they ran with it…a liar’s words…and those words took the breath right away from hundreds of thousands of us. But guess what? we are breathing again, and this time it is fire coming through our noses. And there will be HELL to pay. They need to fire Tomase and the Editors who OK’d this, and then THEY can live with the consequences for awhile.

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]]> By: Ralphie http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29214 Ralphie Wed, 14 May 2008 12:54:23 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29214 It will be interesting if it comes out from the Herald that their source WAS Matt Walsh, an ex-employee who has an ax to grind with the NE Patriots. No you have one party (the Herald) saying he told them about a walk-through, then you have Walsh's testimony to Goodell that there was NO walk through. Then you will hear from Brian Dabol of the Jets and formerly of the Pats saying "I don't know Matt Walsh and I never spoke to Matt Walsh and about any plays that the Rams ran at the walk through" that Walsh attended in full Patriots colors on the sidelines of the Dome. Funny, everyone is taking Walsh as at his word, that he is the oracle of absolute truth. That's a lie however, he's not credible on anything he can't back up with bullet-proof evidence (like the tapes he stole and produced yesterday) based on the way this has all played out. It will be interesting if it comes out from the Herald that their source WAS Matt Walsh, an ex-employee who has an ax to grind with the NE Patriots. No you have one party (the Herald) saying he told them about a walk-through, then you have Walsh’s testimony to Goodell that there was NO walk through. Then you will hear from Brian Dabol of the Jets and formerly of the Pats saying “I don’t know Matt Walsh and I never spoke to Matt Walsh and about any plays that the Rams ran at the walk through” that Walsh attended in full Patriots colors on the sidelines of the Dome. Funny, everyone is taking Walsh as at his word, that he is the oracle of absolute truth. That’s a lie however, he’s not credible on anything he can’t back up with bullet-proof evidence (like the tapes he stole and produced yesterday) based on the way this has all played out.

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]]> By: ken13 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29207 ken13 Wed, 14 May 2008 12:33:33 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29207 Incidentally, to sue for Libel , the Patriots would need to prove that the Herald printed the story with "malicious intent", which I do not believe they did. The Herald simply thought they had something and wanted to be the ones to "break the story" before someone else got wind of it. It's a shame they didn't do their due dilligence before printing an absolutely false story.....but I do not believe they will be sued....nor can they be. Incidentally, to sue for Libel , the Patriots would need to prove that the Herald printed the story with “malicious intent”, which I do not believe they did. The Herald simply thought they had something and wanted to be the ones to “break the story” before someone else got wind of it. It’s a shame they didn’t do their due dilligence before printing an absolutely false story…..but I do not believe they will be sued….nor can they be.

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]]> By: ken13 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29204 ken13 Wed, 14 May 2008 12:29:03 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29204 One thing that will never change....those who hate the Patriots ( brain dead assholes like Treez for instance), will never change their mind...because their precious team probably lost at some point to the Patriots in the past 27 years. But the fact is..the Herald THOUGHT they had a credible source (Walsh), but as has already been proven, walsh likes to think he is more important than he really is....that's one of the reasons he was fired. He also stole memoribilia, video tapes and made up a false resume and alot of other tall tales to make himself look more important. His 15 minutes of fame is over now....and all you haters can sit around your mom's basements, watch your team lose and blame th ePatriots...while throwing darts at your Bill Belichek dart boards. Then you can make support groups and have "Spygate" conventions where you can all piss and moan and make up brand new false stories about the Patriots for years to come. Thanks for giving me something to laugh at every day...it's been a fun ride. One thing that will never change….those who hate the Patriots ( brain dead assholes like Treez for instance), will never change their mind…because their precious team probably lost at some point to the Patriots in the past 27 years. But the fact is..the Herald THOUGHT they had a credible source (Walsh), but as has already been proven, walsh likes to think he is more important than he really is….that’s one of the reasons he was fired. He also stole memoribilia, video tapes and made up a false resume and alot of other tall tales to make himself look more important. His 15 minutes of fame is over now….and all you haters can sit around your mom’s basements, watch your team lose and blame th ePatriots…while throwing darts at your Bill Belichek dart boards. Then you can make support groups and have “Spygate” conventions where you can all piss and moan and make up brand new false stories about the Patriots for years to come. Thanks for giving me something to laugh at every day…it’s been a fun ride.

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]]> By: sdrinan http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29203 sdrinan Wed, 14 May 2008 12:28:48 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29203 Listing Sal P. as a source is problematic. He continues to say that Belichick told Walsh to be careful, when Goodell specifically said that it was Walsh's boss Dee(?) AND Walsh had virtually no contact with Belichick while he worked for the Patriots. As always, ESPN says it, and it becomes "truth." Listing Sal P. as a source is problematic. He continues to say that Belichick told Walsh to be careful, when Goodell specifically said that it was Walsh’s boss Dee(?) AND Walsh had virtually no contact with Belichick while he worked for the Patriots. As always, ESPN says it, and it becomes “truth.”

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]]> By: RealitySpeaks http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29198 RealitySpeaks Wed, 14 May 2008 12:20:10 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29198 Anyone that would listen and quote ESPN on this is perplexing. They are an entertainment entity now, NOT a sports reporting entity. They have a clear plan, not unlike WWE, and have become non entities in the forum of credibility. Sal P and his droogies are not even to be considered reasonable or accountable anymore, to anything but their editor/producers/employers agenda. As far as the Herald, inexcusable,PERIOD. As many have stated, this is about Comcast, NFL, and Money. AND as far as the Herald is concerned, they screwed up. As far as the Anti Pats comments are concerned, jealousy and antipathy towards an organization that created a Dynasty when everyone was told it was not possible to do so anymore. Anyone that would listen and quote ESPN on this is perplexing. They are an entertainment entity now, NOT a sports reporting entity. They have a clear plan, not unlike WWE, and have become non entities in the forum of credibility. Sal P and his droogies are not even to be considered reasonable or accountable anymore, to anything but their editor/producers/employers agenda.
As far as the Herald, inexcusable,PERIOD.
As many have stated, this is about Comcast, NFL, and Money. AND as far as the Herald is concerned, they screwed up. As far as the Anti Pats comments are concerned, jealousy and antipathy towards an organization that created a Dynasty when everyone was told it was not possible to do so anymore.

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]]> By: Non-Euclidean http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29190 Non-Euclidean Wed, 14 May 2008 11:52:54 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29190 I dunno if they could get millions. 1) Its the stupidest thing to do to a local paper 2) They were already admitted cheaters. People knew that. More cheating allegations dont carry that much stigma, as opposed to a scenario when you are accused of cheating, and never did. I dunno if they could get millions.

1) Its the stupidest thing to do to a local paper
2) They were already admitted cheaters. People knew that. More cheating allegations dont carry that much stigma, as opposed to a scenario when you are accused of cheating, and never did.

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]]> By: samh http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29182 samh Wed, 14 May 2008 11:32:48 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29182 Or, another source claimed that Matt Walsh had a tape. S/he could have contacted Tomase previously and said "hey, I don't actually know for sure" but why print a retraction when Walsh hadn't said anything one way or another? To me, it's certainly plausible that Walsh was not the source of the Herald article. Or, another source claimed that Matt Walsh had a tape. S/he could have contacted Tomase previously and said “hey, I don’t actually know for sure” but why print a retraction when Walsh hadn’t said anything one way or another? To me, it’s certainly plausible that Walsh was not the source of the Herald article.

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]]> By: richpats http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29181 richpats Wed, 14 May 2008 11:30:38 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29181 I'm amazed at how many conspiracy theory experts there are here. Walsh says there wasn't a walkthrough tape, the Pats said the same thing - then obviously a tape exists! Cover up! I’m amazed at how many conspiracy theory experts there are here. Walsh says there wasn’t a walkthrough tape, the Pats said the same thing - then obviously a tape exists! Cover up!

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]]> By: brian_21 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29175 brian_21 Wed, 14 May 2008 11:11:55 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29175 I just was listening to Mike and Mike. Sal P gave a journalism lesson that we in journalism schools in college already know: Don't run a story based on a single, anonymous source. Now, this is interesting! It says for the apology that the Boston Herald based its report on "sources that it believed to be credible." http://bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1093898&srvc=home&position=0 Now, "sources" is plural. Was there more than one source? And, if not, if there was just one, then it's like pulling a Kirk Herbstreit. (He said "sources" told him Les Miles would scram for Michigan: It was one, clearly misinformed source). What got me, though, was when Sal said (I think) that Matt Walsh was definitively not the source for the Herald regarding the St. Louis Rams' walk through. Sal made very strong statements that contradict what lots have had to say, and he is a trustworthy guy. If I was wrong there in relaying what Sal said between hearing it and coming up to my laptop to type this, let me know, but I'm pretty sure I'm right. Any thoughts? I just was listening to Mike and Mike. Sal P gave a journalism lesson that we in journalism schools in college already know: Don’t run a story based on a single, anonymous source.

Now, this is interesting! It says for the apology that the Boston Herald based its report on “sources that it believed to be credible.”

http://bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1093898&srvc=home&position=0

Now, “sources” is plural. Was there more than one source? And, if not, if there was just one, then it’s like pulling a Kirk Herbstreit. (He said “sources” told him Les Miles would scram for Michigan: It was one, clearly misinformed source). What got me, though, was when Sal said (I think) that Matt Walsh was definitively not the source for the Herald regarding the St. Louis Rams’ walk through.

Sal made very strong statements that contradict what lots have had to say, and he is a trustworthy guy.

If I was wrong there in relaying what Sal said between hearing it and coming up to my laptop to type this, let me know, but I’m pretty sure I’m right.

Any thoughts?

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]]> By: Referee http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29174 Referee Wed, 14 May 2008 11:10:15 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29174 The Boston Herald proves once again that it is, has always been and after its demise, shall be known forthwith as a rag that should be used as an appropriate substitute for cleaning ones rectal region in lieu of a generally accepted domestic toilet paper or if one sits on a hole in any third world country. The Boston Herald proves once again that it is, has always been and after its demise, shall be known forthwith as a rag that should be used as an appropriate substitute for cleaning ones rectal region in lieu of a generally accepted domestic toilet paper or if one sits on a hole in any third world country.

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]]> By: zilla1126 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29173 zilla1126 Wed, 14 May 2008 11:01:50 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29173 I think that it is clear that Walsh has either destroyed or is withholding the tape; per some side agreement with the Patriots. That is the only plausable explanation for this. Anything else does not make sense. It is a certainty that there will be no lawsuit from the Pats if this is true. I think that it is clear that Walsh has either destroyed or is withholding the tape; per some side agreement with the Patriots. That is the only plausable explanation for this. Anything else does not make sense.

It is a certainty that there will be no lawsuit from the Pats if this is true.

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]]> By: Stlrfan1 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29172 Stlrfan1 Wed, 14 May 2008 11:01:48 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29172 Florio, you've got it all wrong man! The Herald just said: “Prior to the publication of its Feb. 2, 2008, article, the Boston Herald neither possessed nor viewed a tape of the Rams’ walkthrough before Super Bowl XXXVI, nor did we speak to anyone who had." THEY DIDN'T SPEAK TO ANYONE WHO HAD! Meaning, drop the Matt Walsh attacks. Sounds to me like the Herald took a rumor and exploited the purported facts to sell newspapers. The next statement of your article sounds ridiculous - like you just can't let the public bashing of Matt Walsh go away: In our view, the timing of the story implicitly confirms that former Pats video employee Matt Walsh was the source. The timing of the story confirms nothing - other than the fact that the Boston Herald doesn't do much research before publishing "news". Time to get off the Matt Walsh bashing nonsense and move into new football news. Florio, you’ve got it all wrong man! The Herald just said:

“Prior to the publication of its Feb. 2, 2008, article, the Boston Herald neither possessed nor viewed a tape of the Rams’ walkthrough before Super Bowl XXXVI, nor did we speak to anyone who had.”

THEY DIDN’T SPEAK TO ANYONE WHO HAD!

Meaning, drop the Matt Walsh attacks. Sounds to me like the Herald took a rumor and exploited the purported facts to sell newspapers. The next statement of your article sounds ridiculous - like you just can’t let the public bashing of Matt Walsh go away:

In our view, the timing of the story implicitly confirms that former Pats video employee Matt Walsh was the source.

The timing of the story confirms nothing - other than the fact that the Boston Herald doesn’t do much research before publishing “news”.

Time to get off the Matt Walsh bashing nonsense and move into new football news.

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]]> By: 8man http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29171 8man Wed, 14 May 2008 10:53:34 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29171 Again, a rumor circulates around the world, is heralded as the truth and spurs the dogs of war long before the truth is given a forum. It's over. Again, a rumor circulates around the world, is heralded as the truth and spurs the dogs of war long before the truth is given a forum.

It’s over.

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]]> By: stugacz http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29162 stugacz Wed, 14 May 2008 09:03:52 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29162 Treez: You are talking nonsense man. Treez:

You are talking nonsense man.

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]]> By: kellyb http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29160 kellyb Wed, 14 May 2008 08:59:06 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29160 I find it hard to believe nobody has brought up what to me sounds so apparent....and that is how easy it would be for the Pats to have a suitcase full of dollar bills delivered to Walsh in exchange for zipped lips. I find it hard to believe nobody has brought up what to me sounds so apparent….and that is how easy it would be for the Pats to have a suitcase full of dollar bills delivered to Walsh in exchange for zipped lips.

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]]> By: Dawn http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29158 Dawn Wed, 14 May 2008 08:53:38 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29158 Given the damage that was done and as Kraft said, the vast audience that WON'T see the retraction/apology as they did the game itself, I personally think the Herald should publish this in all the major newspapers across the country as well. Not only will this help reach a vaster audience but it will also serve as a little "humble pie". Given the damage that was done and as Kraft said, the vast audience that WON’T see the retraction/apology as they did the game itself, I personally think the Herald should publish this in all the major newspapers across the country as well. Not only will this help reach a vaster audience but it will also serve as a little “humble pie”.

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]]> By: brian_21 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29157 brian_21 Wed, 14 May 2008 08:44:11 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29157 Wow, Treez. Wow. Wow, Treez. Wow.

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]]> By: strobman http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29152 strobman Wed, 14 May 2008 07:35:19 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29152 I'm sure that I'm not the first to think or say this, but a former videographer admits to watching the StL pre-superbowl walkthrough and telling the NE coaches about yet. Sounds like the Herald heard this, proally through Walsh himself, came to an incorrect conclusion, and tried to be the first to publish this sports story of the decade. I’m sure that I’m not the first to think or say this, but a former videographer admits to watching the StL pre-superbowl walkthrough and telling the NE coaches about yet. Sounds like the Herald heard this, proally through Walsh himself, came to an incorrect conclusion, and tried to be the first to publish this sports story of the decade.

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]]> By: bushy http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29140 bushy Wed, 14 May 2008 06:05:32 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29140 Don't believe everything you read in the papers. It's an old truism, yet is more true today than ever. There are a lot of people, including many posters on this blog, who owe the Patriots an apology. But human nature being what it is, admitting they were were wrong will not be something they have the guts to fess up to. Don’t believe everything you read in the papers. It’s an old truism, yet is more true today than ever. There are a lot of people, including many posters on this blog, who owe the Patriots an apology. But human nature being what it is, admitting they were were wrong will not be something they have the guts to fess up to.

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]]> By: Topher http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29139 Topher Wed, 14 May 2008 06:02:05 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29139 The Harold ran a rumor as a story. Conveniently the NFL has a new bad boy to keep the public glare off them. I'm getting bored with this story already. We are all going to still watch NFL games, we'll all eventually forgive the Patriots and the NFL and Matt Walsh will end up on Celebrity Deathmatch arm wrestling Tonya Harding. Lets hit the fast forward button and move on to something more interesting. Hasn't a Bengal been arrested yet this week? The Harold ran a rumor as a story. Conveniently the NFL has a new bad boy to keep the public glare off them.

I’m getting bored with this story already. We are all going to still watch NFL games, we’ll all eventually forgive the Patriots and the NFL and Matt Walsh will end up on Celebrity Deathmatch arm wrestling Tonya Harding.

Lets hit the fast forward button and move on to something more interesting. Hasn’t a Bengal been arrested yet this week?

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]]> By: Kidekk http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29136 Kidekk Wed, 14 May 2008 05:54:50 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29136 I hope they sue. kellyb9, you know what they have to gain from this? The fines that were levied against them, and money to put back into restoring their image nationally. Morevover, it gives them more money that they can spend on their facilities or eben donate to charity, which will probably be the most likely outcome if they pursue this matter. I hope they sue. kellyb9, you know what they have to gain from this? The fines that were levied against them, and money to put back into restoring their image nationally. Morevover, it gives them more money that they can spend on their facilities or eben donate to charity, which will probably be the most likely outcome if they pursue this matter.

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]]> By: dEV http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29132 dEV Wed, 14 May 2008 05:40:49 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29132 Well, the problem would be for the Pats to show how their reputation has been damaged by the allegations. I mean, any more than their reputation has already been damaged by the cheating they got caught doing. The Herald was irresponsible in that they ran with a story without tangible proof or a witness "on the record." That said, they had a source they believed to be credible, and a story that was incredibly plausible given what the Pats had already been found guilty of doing. The fact that so many people believed the story goes to show just how damaged the reputation of the Patriots already was. How many people passed on season tickets because of the Herald's story? How many people decided not to buy a Randy Moss jersey because of the allegations? It's doubtful that the Pats can point to any financial loss directly related to the Herald's story, which makes the likelihood of an eight-digit settlement pretty slim. As a believer in irony, I figure they'll get about as much as the league fined them... somewhere between $500k and $1.5 million. Well, the problem would be for the Pats to show how their reputation has been damaged by the allegations. I mean, any more than their reputation has already been damaged by the cheating they got caught doing. The Herald was irresponsible in that they ran with a story without tangible proof or a witness “on the record.” That said, they had a source they believed to be credible, and a story that was incredibly plausible given what the Pats had already been found guilty of doing. The fact that so many people believed the story goes to show just how damaged the reputation of the Patriots already was. How many people passed on season tickets because of the Herald’s story? How many people decided not to buy a Randy Moss jersey because of the allegations? It’s doubtful that the Pats can point to any financial loss directly related to the Herald’s story, which makes the likelihood of an eight-digit settlement pretty slim. As a believer in irony, I figure they’ll get about as much as the league fined them… somewhere between $500k and $1.5 million.

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]]> By: skrijd http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29129 skrijd Wed, 14 May 2008 05:29:04 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29129 Ok. 3L here, so I might be wrong. In a defamation suit, a public official or public figure must prove the defendant acted with "actual malice" in publishing the defamatory statement. (New York Times v. Sullivan; Gertz v. Robert Welch, Inc.). If (I'm guessing and too lazy to do the WestLaw search) an entity (e.g. Patriots) can be considered a public figure, wouldn't they have to prove that the Boston Herald published the story with actual malice? The Patriots would have to prove by clear and convincing evidence the defamatory statements were published with “knowledge of the falsity or reckless disregard for the truth.” (Harte-Hanks Commun., Inc. v. Connaughton). If the source was Walsh, which we assume it is, was the story really published with obvious reasons to doubt the truthfulness of the source? Did they purposefully avoid the truth by intentionally not asking the right questions, not interviewing the right people or relying on biased statements to avoid discrediting the story? I highly doubt it. Now, if Tomase is in actuality the "source", then the story was published with actual malice (definitely obvious reasons to doubt the truthfulness of the Tomase), and there will likely be the eight-figure verdict. Further, another issue if this goes to court is will Tomase reveal his source? Not too long ago some journalists were found in contempt of court as a result of the very same issue (e.g. San Francisco Chronicle). If he declines to name the source, could actual malice really be found? Its hard to see if there are reasons to doubt the source without knowing who the source is. Again, this is assuming that an entity can be considered a public figure. I probably should do the research, but its too late. Any attorneys out there that know better - correct me if I'm wrong. Ok. 3L here, so I might be wrong.

In a defamation suit, a public official or public figure must prove the defendant acted with “actual malice” in publishing the defamatory statement. (New York Times v. Sullivan; Gertz v. Robert Welch, Inc.). If (I’m guessing and too lazy to do the WestLaw search) an entity (e.g. Patriots) can be considered a public figure, wouldn’t they have to prove that the Boston Herald published the story with actual malice? The Patriots would have to prove by clear and convincing evidence the defamatory statements were published with “knowledge of the falsity or reckless disregard for the truth.” (Harte-Hanks Commun., Inc. v. Connaughton). If the source was Walsh, which we assume it is, was the story really published with obvious reasons to doubt the truthfulness of the source? Did they purposefully avoid the truth by intentionally not asking the right questions, not interviewing the right people or relying on biased statements to avoid discrediting the story? I highly doubt it.

Now, if Tomase is in actuality the “source”, then the story was published with actual malice (definitely obvious reasons to doubt the truthfulness of the Tomase), and there will likely be the eight-figure verdict.

Further, another issue if this goes to court is will Tomase reveal his source? Not too long ago some journalists were found in contempt of court as a result of the very same issue (e.g. San Francisco Chronicle). If he declines to name the source, could actual malice really be found? Its hard to see if there are reasons to doubt the source without knowing who the source is.

Again, this is assuming that an entity can be considered a public figure. I probably should do the research, but its too late. Any attorneys out there that know better - correct me if I’m wrong.

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]]> By: brian_21 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29126 brian_21 Wed, 14 May 2008 05:19:11 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29126 In a previous entry I gave the 5 things that need to be proven for libel regarding a plaintiff suing a newspaper, according to the 2007 AP Stylebook. I now believe the Boston Herald ought to get sued. Additionally, if the info given is explicitly false or a lie, say who the culprit/source/liar is. He/she deserves to be embarrassed, and rightfully so. The Herald put trust in the individual. This whole situation is almost as awkward as (yes, another YouTube video): http://youtube.com/watch?v=cu8q3363qTk&feature=related In a previous entry I gave the 5 things that need to be proven for libel regarding a plaintiff suing a newspaper, according to the 2007 AP Stylebook. I now believe the Boston Herald ought to get sued. Additionally, if the info given is explicitly false or a lie, say who the culprit/source/liar is. He/she deserves to be embarrassed, and rightfully so. The Herald put trust in the individual.

This whole situation is almost as awkward as (yes, another YouTube video):

http://youtube.com/watch?v=cu8q3363qTk&feature=related

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]]> By: jared2181 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29125 jared2181 Wed, 14 May 2008 05:16:14 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29125 Treez your comment might be the dumbest thing I've read in the past 24 hours. And thats saying a lot. Treez your comment might be the dumbest thing I’ve read in the past 24 hours. And thats saying a lot.

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]]> By: east96st http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29124 east96st Wed, 14 May 2008 05:11:50 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29124 All the lawyers out there (Florio, too.) - Would the Herald's lawyers ALLOW them to make such a public and damning apology if they didn't have reassurances that the Pats would NOT sue? Seems to me, barring any agreement from the Pats, the Herald just threw away ANY possible defense. What's the law regarding these things? All the lawyers out there (Florio, too.) - Would the Herald’s lawyers ALLOW them to make such a public and damning apology if they didn’t have reassurances that the Pats would NOT sue? Seems to me, barring any agreement from the Pats, the Herald just threw away ANY possible defense. What’s the law regarding these things?

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]]> By: Johny Corkrhan http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29123 Johny Corkrhan Wed, 14 May 2008 05:05:02 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29123 As a Patriots fan you would want to let sleeping dogs lie. Your team is a bunch of cheaters and assholes. Hopefully, in the future your rings will be removed and the "dynasty" will be something on the lines of the Webber years at Michigan. A 500K fine and a 1st round pick was absurd. Belichick should have been banned from the league and all titles stripped. As a Patriots fan you would want to let sleeping dogs lie. Your team is a bunch of cheaters and assholes. Hopefully, in the future your rings will be removed and the “dynasty” will be something on the lines of the Webber years at Michigan. A 500K fine and a 1st round pick was absurd. Belichick should have been banned from the league and all titles stripped.

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]]> By: kellyb9 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29118 kellyb9 Wed, 14 May 2008 04:50:10 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29118 As a Patriots fan, it's best to let sleeping dogs lie. Enough said. What is Kraft, the fourth wealthiest owner in the league, going to gain from this? Nothing. As a Patriots fan, it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie. Enough said. What is Kraft, the fourth wealthiest owner in the league, going to gain from this? Nothing.

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]]> By: Treez http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29117 Treez Wed, 14 May 2008 04:44:43 +0000 http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/05/14/herald-apologizes-for-super-bowl-xxxvi-story/#comment-29117 I wonder if the Pats planted the story to try and mess with Walsh's perceived credibility. Why not create a big story that you know is false, so that everyone sighs in relief - "everything is OK". But they still got caught cheating. I wonder if the Pats planted the story to try and mess with Walsh’s perceived credibility.

Why not create a big story that you know is false, so that everyone sighs in relief - “everything is OK”. But they still got caught cheating.

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