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New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stated that the kicking footballs used in their recent game against the Kansas City Chiefs were underinflated by 2 to 2.5 pounds. Belichick deferred to the NFL for an explanation and mentioned that the issue affected both teams. The NFL declined to comment on the matter. Belichick and the Patriots players acknowledged that the underinflated footballs had an impact on missed field goals and kickoffs during the game.
- Kicking footballs used in the Patriots-Chiefs game were underinflated by 2 to 2.5 pounds.
- The issue affected both teams.
- Missed field goals and kickoffs were impacted by the underinflated footballs.
- The NFL declined to comment on the matter.
- Belichick and Patriots players acknowledged the disappointment but noted it was the same for both teams.
Harrison Butker | K
Week 16
2 FGs
1 FGs missed
- Butker missed a 39-yard field goal in the first half.
- He made a 29-yard field goal in the third quarter.
- Butker didn't think his 39-yard miss was due to the air pressure in the football.
- Officials informed Butker at halftime that the footballs were underinflated.
- He described the process of pumping up the footballs as routine.
- Butker felt a difference in the inflation level of the footballs during the second half.
Chad Ryland | K
Week 16
1 FGs missed
- Ryland missed a 41-yard field goal in the first half.
- He appeared frustrated in the locker room after the game.
- Ryland is a rookie and has made 13 field goals in 20 attempts this season.
Tom Brady | QB
- Brady was suspended four games in the past for a scheme involving improperly inflated footballs.
New England Patriots
- The Patriots acknowledged the disappointment of the underinflated footballs.
- Chad Ryland, a rookie kicker for the Patriots, has had a challenging season.
- Tom Brady was previously suspended for a scheme involving improperly inflated footballs.
Kansas City Chiefs
- Harrison Butker missed a field goal but didn't attribute it to the air pressure in the football.
- The Chiefs' kicking footballs were underinflated in the first half.
- Officials informed Butker at halftime about the underinflated footballs.