I agree that this is a lot of senseless hype, but on this particular point I think you're wrong. The whole issue came up in the prior game between the Patriots and Colts when a player on the Colts who intercepted Brady twice noticed that something didn't feel right about the balls. Now if a guy who catches a ball twice in a game can tell the difference, then I can guarantee you that a player like a center, quarterback, running back, etc. who handles the ball dozens of times during the game will know the difference.
Anyone remember the Dolphins vs. Patriots when at the end of the game the Patriots had convict clean an area for the kicker to make the kick easier as the Dolphins never got that courtesy?
Spygate where NFL fine the Patriots over a Million Dollars and draft picks and conveniently the NFL lost the evidence to show the public.
Russell Wilson is the Tim Tebow who praises the lord after each win that is who I am pulling for in the Super Bowl.
“then I can guarantee you that a player like a center, quarterback, running back, etc. who handles the ball dozens of times during the game will know the difference.”
What about a referee? They handle the ball before and after every play
For those who think that players cannot tell the difference and that under-inflated balls do not give an advantage...
http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=12206777
It is not the weight of the ball, but that an underinflated ball allows a better grip on it.
A professor ran the stats on fumbles, the Pats have had the fewest for years, way below normal. They even beat teams that play in domes, where is no cold and wet balls.
Makes one go Hmmmm.
Look for the article on Business Insider, that where I saw it.