We were honored to appear on Sony Music’s podcast network, named Somethin’ Else. We appeared as a guest on their crime history themed show called “Cheat!” where the topic was the New Orleans Saints “Bountygate” scandal of the early 2010s. You remember that, right?
When New Orleans Saints players, were paid, under the table some extra bonus money to intentionally injure players? Before we flash back, let’s look to the future a bit.
The Saints face very long odds of making and winning the Super Bowl in 2024. They are currently priced at +1800 to win the NFC title, and reach the Super Bowl.
They are backed to the tune of +4000 on the money line to win the Super Bowl.
Now, to go back to the future, and looking at Bountygate. To listen to my appearance on “Cheat!” covering the New Orleans Saints bountygate scandal, go here: iHeartRadio Apple Pods Google Pods
Let’s go back to what we wrote back in March of 2012.
How bad is the “Bountygate” scandal? It’s far-reaching all the way to the top. Yes, there are 22-27 players under investigation, but the fallout doesn’t end on the field.
Or with the defensive coordinator, or head coach. It reaches beyond Gregg Williams and Sean Payton, all the way to the owner’s box.
New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson has also taken a hit in the pocket book.
“He was fined $500,000 and (forfeited) a second-round draft choice this year and a second-round draft choice next year.
I don’t know if you would consider that ‘in the clear’ but I think he was penalized aggressively, including losing coaches and potentially additional discipline against players,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said Monday.
The Commish addressed the media during the league meetings in Palm Beach. So how did Benson take it?
“Mr. Benson should speak for himself on that. He was very open with the clubs. He expressed his disappointment that this occurred and it was not what he is all about and he expects to take whatever steps necessary to make sure it doesn’t happen again,” Goodell said.
He also reiterated the parameters for the Saints personnel currently under suspension.
“They are suspended from their duties and they won’t be allowed into the training facilities during that suspension. I do not expect them to have contact with the team, but we will also have to be reasonable about that. But you are not going to be coach from home if that is what you mean,” he said.
Paul M. Banks is the owner/manager of The Sports Bank. He’s also the author of “Transatlantic Passage: How the English Premier League Redefined Soccer in America,” and “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry.”
He’s written for numerous publications, including the New York Daily News, Sports Illustrated and the Chicago Tribune. He regularly appears on NTD News and WGN News Now. Follow the website on Twitter and Instagram.