I first heard this from a buddy that is "close" to the NFL. He usually is pretty good at knowing this stuff before anybody but he even told me, it was just rumor.
Personally, I thought the penalty would be more harsh but this is the NFL. In the end I guess it is fair and sets the example. I do find it funny that Pats fans think there is a sting going on or some type of conspiracy. >>Other teams have mentioned the balls, the colts mentioned their concerns before the game, there was an interception during the colts game that brought the balls to the officials attention, and when it comes down to it Kraft and his millions are tighter with the NFL than any other team. So really, I don't get why anyone is complaining. Also, lets face it, the Pats have a great team and are well coached (some times too well). I don't think they deserve to have the Super Bowl stripped, records or games taken away, as other owners, media, fans and players suggested. Lets move and play some football.