Don Shula likes the Pats' chances of going undefeated, but the Bill Belichick-inspired spying scandal has clouded Shula's thinking when comparing New England with his unbeaten 1972 Dolphins team. In the words of Shula, who was the coach of the only undefeated-untied football team in NFL history, "The Spygate thing has diminished what they've accomplished."
Following the NY Jets game, Belichick was fined $500,000 and the Patriots were fined $250,000 and lost a first-round draft pick for videotaping the Jets' opposing sideline during the teams' season-opening game.
BUT, it's what Shula said next which has caused controversy... "I guess you got the same thing as putting an asterisk by Barry Bonds' home run record."
WHAT!?!?! You're trying to tell me videotaping a defensive signal caller is the same as steroids and HGH???? I refuse to believe that th Patriots entire offensive, defensive, and special teams successes which has led to 3 Super Bowls and has led to the imminent possibility of a 4th in February of 2008. Too man different defensive players, too many coaches, too many offensive players, and 2 kickers have helped the Patriots reach "Dynasty" levels. How can a camera do that much.
The way the Patriots have been playing, Shula and the '72 Dolphins might find themselves answering more questions than in past years about whether their record will stand. With New England's record at 9-0, it will come down to Pittsburgh, The Miami Dolphins in Week 16, and my pick as game of the week.... Jacksonville. Yes, the Jacksonville Jaguars will be the team to look out for. You heard it here.
There have been serious runs made at the Dolphins' record before. The 1985 Bears started 12-0, then lost on a Monday night to a Dolphins team coached by Shula. The 1991 Redskins started 11-0 and the 1998 Broncos and 2005 Colts opened 13-0 before losing. Members of the '72 Dolphins have become known for sipping champagne after the last unbeaten team falls.
There is a good shot this season for the New England Patriots... but what few teams will understand, they are angry. They are sick of being overlooked. They are that good, and with the Spygate Scandal, you now have players who are playing angry to show loyalty to their coach who has been under fire since day 1.By the way, Coach Shula, thanks for one more reason to be angry...
