Former Eagles staffer identifies alleged Patriots scoreboard tactics
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 4:08 PM
Last updated Sep 2, 2026
Former Philadelphia Eagles staffer Ryan Paganetti released a detailed analysis on September 2, 2026, claiming the New England Patriots manipulated stadium scoreboards during the Bill Belichick era. According to the report, the team displayed reversed images of goalposts on the Gillette Stadium video boards when opposing teams lined up for field goal attempts. This visual distortion allegedly created the appearance of four uprights, intended to distract kickers and provide misleading information regarding wind direction via flags. Paganetti stated that he reviewed 52 field goal attempts and observed that the Patriots did not use this display when their own kickers took the field. Pro Bowler Graham Gano noted that such unconventional tactical efforts were common in various stadiums throughout the league during that period. No formal league response regarding the claims has been issued.
- •Ryan Paganetti alleged the Patriots displayed reversed goalpost images on scoreboards to distract opposing kickers.
- •The tactic reportedly aimed to confuse kickers regarding wind direction and goalpost positioning.
- •Paganetti claimed away field goal percentages were the lowest in the league at Gillette Stadium.
- •Graham Gano indicated that various teams employed creative tactics to disrupt kickers at their home stadiums.
- •No official league discipline or investigation has been initiated following the claims.
- 4:08 PMYahoo Sports — Former Eagles staffer finds another way the Bill Belichick Patriots tried to gain an advantage over opponents
"The Patriots of the Bill Belichick era already have Spygate and Deflategate on their resume.
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