Ballard said he didn't blame the Patriots or Robert Kraft for McDaniels' decision to stay in New EnglandGETTY IMAGES
Colts GM Chris Ballard yesterday "was convincing" in displaying that he was "still in control of what’s become a messy situation" in wake of Josh McDaniels spurning the team to stay with the Patriots, according to Stephen Holder of the INDIANAPOLIS STAR. Ballard held a press conference to address the situation, and his "calm demeanor was consistent even when he was asked whether he should have sensed something was amiss (he did not)" (INDIANAPOLIS STAR, 2/8). In Boston, Ben Volin writes Ballard "took the high road" (BOSTON GLOBE, 2/8). Ballard said that he "didn't blame the Patriots" or Owner Robert Kraft for McDaniels' decision and "didn't feel betrayed" (BOSTON GLOBE, 2/8). In Boston, Christopher Price noted Ballard was "probably too kind in his assessment of McDaniels and the fact that he's appeared to leave the Colts in the lurch" (BOSTONSPORTSJOURNAL.com, 2/7). THE MMQB's Albert Breer writes teams "took notice" of how Ballard handled himself, and it "should reverberate with coaching candidates." One NFL team president said, “Ton of respect for Ballard now." Another said, “Dude handled it well.” Breer: "I’d second that" (SI.com, 2/8).
IT'S ON LIKE DONKEY KONG: In Boston, Jeff Howe writes Ballard "wrapped up" his conference with a "shot at the Patriots." Ballard said, "The rivalry is back on." He "established a good reputation around the league since taking the job a year ago, but his shot at the Patriots might come back to bite him." The teams "meet at Gillette Stadium next season" (BOSTON HERALD, 2/8).
TWITTER REAX: The Indianapolis Star's Zak Keefer tweeted, "This feels like Chris Ballard's moment. He is certain the Colts will be better from this, and there is a rising conviction in his voice that tells you he believes that." Jaguars LS Matt Overton: "Ballard handled the difficult press conference really well. ... The Colts are in good hands." ESPN's Adam Schefter: "Ballard is handling his press conference as well as he can." NFL Network's Charley Casserly: "Move over Gary Oldman (Darkest Hour). Chris [Ballard] deserves the Academy Award for that Press Conference and he was not acting!"
