I think the Patriots probably engage in some purposeful misinterpretation of rules, some shrewd interpretations of the rules, and some flat-out skirting of the rules. I doubt that these ways of thinking and behaving are too far from the norm in the NFL. The approach is also virtually identical to the approach Red Auerbach took in assembling, coaching, and managing the Celtics.
I have absolutely no problem with what I see as Belichick's brilliance as a coach and general manager -- basically because I believe he straddles the line of ethics when it comes to getting an edge, but I have yet to hear a single thing that would lead me to believe that he crosses the line in a way I'd be uncomfortable with. If he is telling guys to sneak into hotel rooms to steal playbooks or planting microphones -- yes, that would be too far -- but there is absolutely NOTHING credible about those types of accusations and I don't believe them.
I am certain none of us know the complete truth. Based on what we do know, along we what falls in the realm of reaonable speculation -- I don't give a hoot. I wouldn't trade the last 15 years of Pats fandom for anything. And, i hope that Brad and Danny are alert to anything that would give the C's an edge, even if it skirts the line. My ethical threshold when it comes to sports is different from real life.