FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (TheBlaze/AP) -- Patriots coach Bill Belichick says he doesn't know how footballs became deflated during the game that got his team to the Super Bowl.
But Belichick declined to answer questions Thursday after saying he knew nothing about accusations that his team cheated with underinflated footballs in its win against the Colts in the AFC championship game.
"I was shocked to learn of the footballs on Monday. I had no knowledge until Monday morning," he said.
"In my entire coaching career, I have never talked to any player or staff member about football air pressure," he added.
The NFL is investigating.
But on that, Belichick wouldn't comment.
"No further comment on NFL investigation, and I've told you all I know from my perspective on the subject," he said, adding, "I've told you everything I know."
Belichick says quarterbacks, kickers and other specialists have their own preferences on footballs. But he says he gives them no sympathy when they talk about those preferences, and forces players to practice under bad ball conditions.
Belichick says the Patriots going forward will inflate footballs to a safe level to prevent them from going under allowable air pressure during games.
ESPN explains would could happen if the Patriots are found to be in the wrong:
Under NFL rules, no alteration of the footballs is allowed once they are approved. If a person is found breaking league rules and tampering with the footballs, that person could face up to a $25,000 fine and potentially more discipline.
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady is expected to address reporters later Thursday.
Jonathon M. Seidl
