Opinions continue to roll in regarding news the Falcons are being investigated for piping in extra crowd noise during games at the Georgia Dome over the last two seasons, and ESPN’s Damien Woody said the Falcons should be “severely punished” if they are found guilty, as it is "gaining a competitive advantage.” The Falcons went just 6-10 at home over the last two years, but Woody said, “This is bigger than the Atlanta Falcons. It's the integrity of the game. We all know that Roger Goodell preaches about the integrity of the game. You have to make an example out of the Atlanta Falcons so other teams that come after … know this is not an issue to be played with” (“His & Hers,” ESPN2, 2/4). ESPN’s Dan Graziano said the Falcons “are in trouble, and I think they’re anticipating that or else Arthur Blank would not have said what he said” on Tuesday regarding the charge. While there likely will be “some sanctions against” the Falcons, Graziano said, “I’m also told this happens somewhat frequently, at least accusations of it” (“NFL Insiders,” ESPN, 2/4). ESPN’s Jeff Saturday said he hopes orders to pipe in the noise “didn’t travel up” to Falcons President & CEO Rick McKay, because he is “basically in charge of the integrity of our game” as Chair of the Competition Committee. Saturday: “You just wonder how far it goes up” (“NFL Live,” ESPN, 2/4). CBS Sports Network’s Jim Rome said, “I’m sure Atlanta’s not the only team that does it, but I bet they’re the only team that does it and then goes 3-5 at home” (“Rome,” CBS Sports Network, 2/4).
