By: Jamie Carter
Updated: Aug. 17, 2015
Originally Published: Jan. 27, 2015
Do the unwavering allegiances of Patriots fans cloud their judgment on ethical controversies? How do fans of other teams feel about this dedication? Would they expect Patriots supporters to abandon their team if the shoe—er, cleat—were on the other foot? The responses are quite revealing.
A Loyal Patriots Supporter
“I honestly don’t even want to think about it until after the game next Sunday.”
A New Englander with a Passion for the Patriots
“Should fans of the Red Sox quit because of the steroid scandals involving some players? I’ve loved the Patriots since I was a kid, long before they lost that first Super Bowl in ’86 with a score of 46-10. I’ve seen the team struggle through the late ’80s and early ’90s when they were almost relocated. I’m a fan because I admire Belichick’s straightforward, ‘do-your-job’ attitude, and I respect Tom Brady’s rise from a seventh-round pick to one of the greatest quarterbacks in history.
If the team were involved in something truly heinous, like supporting a player with serious criminal charges, I’d have a hard time sticking by them. But the deflated balls? That’s just media hype. No one has proven any wrongdoing, and it didn’t affect the game as far as I can tell. The previous videotaping incident? They broke the rules, paid the fine—what else is there?”
A Frustrated Chargers Fan
“They could let the air out of the balls or inflate them with helium, and the Chargers would still find a way to lose.”
Another Devoted Patriots Fan
“There are people out there trying to bring down Tom Brady and the Patriots; they’re just looking for ways to hurt us. Those people should be ignored.”
An Avid Football Fan
“I prefer to wait for evidence before casting judgment on players. So far, it doesn’t look good for Tom, similar to how I defended Lance Armstrong for years. While this isn’t on the same level, if it turns out to be true, it does show an arrogance that’s hard to like. Altering balls wasn’t necessary; they would have dominated the Colts anyway. I’d rather root for someone honest, like Russell Wilson, who has openly admitted to his past. Can we just enjoy the game?”
A (Possibly Misguided?) Patriots Fan
“I haven’t even mentioned it at home because if I don’t talk about it, it’s like it never happened.”
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In summary, while Patriots fans show fierce loyalty, their willingness to overlook ethical concerns raises questions about fandom and morality. The responses from various fans highlight the complexities of sports loyalty and how it can shape perceptions of right and wrong.