I think you guys are getting a little off-topic. It doesnt seem to me that NY is defending the Jets as much as asking why the double-standard.
Why is what the Ryan/Scott whoever has done or said classless, but yet, Vontae is a hero?
For one, on a Fins message board the team can do no wrong, unless they lose, then they did everthing wrong. Conversely, the Jets, Bills, and Patriots always do wrong.
But I think essentially it boils down to the severity and duration or the action as well as the publicity it receives.
When Ryan or Scotts comments are published in every media outlet for a week it attracts more attention, things snowball, and it makes them look bitter or classless.
When Vontae makes a passing comment that is only caught by a few people, it is acceptable sportsmanship.
Overt actions such as late hits in games, eye gouging players in a pile, "in your face" type celebrations, etc... nearly always qualify as classless.
Speaking badly about your opponent, both before and after games, are also unsportsmanlike.
Lots more I'm sure, but really it is all in the way the comments or actions are perceived, and each of us will see them in a different way.
Wonder why...?
