Spygate's first victim: Tampa Bay?

FEBRUARY 22, 2008

That's true, according to revelations in a New York Times article in which an unnamed former Patriots player is reported to have said the team's videotaping of defensive signals started in coach Bill Bellichick's first game -- in the 2000 season-opener against the Bucs.

It's a fascinating story that provides yet more context on the scope and length of time the Patriots are alleged to have cheated. Videotaping coaches signals is a violation of NFL rules. The Patriots and Bellichick were fined a combined $750,000 in September by commissioner Roger Goodell after the league found evidence of previous videotaping.

Ironic thing about that Bucs game in 2000: the Patriots lost 21-16 and the Bucs went on to a 3-0 start, finishing 10-6. Click here for the full story.

Posted by at 12:47:38 pm on February 22, 2008 | Permalink | Comments | | Edit Post

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