It's an absolute guarantee in my mind. No way he misses more than 2 games. Absolutely no chance he misses week 5 vs Dallas.
I think the two parties are probably negotiating a save face solution. I agree there is no way Goodell backs down completely and of course Brady's threat is he doesnt want anything (legacy!). If he sticks with that stance there is no reason why Goodell should reduce at all. The appeal to the courts I understand is a no-win thing for Brady since there seems to be no judicial basis to overturn the process which was collectively bargained (in the cba). It maybe flawed but it was agreed to.
Per the source, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is being pushed by a small handful of influential owners to hold firm on the four-game suspension. Working against that pressure, however, is the fear that the four-game suspension would be wiped out by a federal court.
Each team will be required to supply 24 footballs to the officials locker room --€“ 12 primary and 12 backup -- 2 hours and 15 minutes prior to the game. Last season, the home team had to submit 24 footballs prior to the game, but the visitors only had to submit 12 footballs with an option to supply an additional 12 for use in outdoor stadiums.
The referee will designate two members of his crew to conduct a pregame inspection to make sure all footballs meet the required specifications. Last season, the referee was the sole judge.
The officials will number the balls 1-12. Last season, the balls were not numbered.
The officials will measure the PSI and record that measurement corresponding to the numbered ball. Last season, no such record was kept.
Any game ball within the allowable range of 12.5 to 13.5 PSI will be approved and the PSI level will not be altered. Any game ball determined to be over 13.5 PSI or under 12.5 PSI will either be deflated or inflated to 13.0 PSI. Last year, there was no specific measurement of 13.0 required if an adjustment had to be made.
Additionally, the same procedure will be followed with respect to the backup set of game balls for each team.
I'd like to know why there is near silence on why the 2 NE assistants who actually deflated the balls (and are currently "suspended" not fired by the Patriots) did not appear in the appeal process or have had nothing to say. They are apparently being kept under wraps by Kraft/NE. Brady is playing chicken here...he has to know these 2 assts. will be called to testify under oath. Will they be prepared to testify that neither they nor Brady had anything to do with the condition of the balls? Hilarious excuse for smashing up the phone!
The judicial system should refuse to hear this kind of petty private mudslinging and tend to more pressing matters.
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