Four words:A rule's a rule.
Funny. The tuck rule had never been used before that game.
It was found in the rule book, true. But it was in pencil. In Belichick's handwriting. With a little New England clam chowder stain. At least, I hope it's chowder.
But under today's (correct) interpretation of the rule, that "incomplete pass" would be ruled a fumble EVERY TIME. That said, I was glad the Raiders lost that game even if it was because of a bad interpretation of the rule.