Analytics expert identifies visual tactic used at Gillette Stadium for kickers

Analytics expert Ryan Paganetti claims the New England Patriots used a visual distraction for opposing kickers at Gillette Stadium. According to an analysis of over a decade of television broadcasts, the stadium video board displayed a reverse view of the field. This image placed an offset set of yellow uprights behind the actual goalposts, creating a visual illusion for visiting specialists. Paganetti noted that in windy conditions, the orange streamers displayed on the screen appeared to move in the opposite direction of those on the physical structure. He reported that this display did not appear during the 52 field goal attempts by the Patriots that he reviewed for his study. Paganetti previously served in roles with the Philadelphia Eagles, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Las Vegas Raiders.

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