This month, the NFL has played off like dramatized soap opera or even a session of Grand Theft Auto – there have been more arrested players, plea deals, underdogs, and more controversies than a M. Night Shymalan movie.
The amount of legal issues has captured the attention of feminists, lawyers, and various news sites. Our very own Harbinger held a twitter talk with the hashtag #NFLBleeds discussing the myriad of supposed crimes committed by the NFL. This has even spurred discussion of the psychological effects football has on the mind.
Adrian Peterson and Ray Rice were both prosecuted for brutal beatings within their families. Ray Rice viciously attacked his then fiancee in an elevator. There was video evidence of the incident.
Meanwhile, pictures were published of Adrian Peterson’s son with grotesque cuts and bruises after his father beat him with a tree branch.
Both aggressors were taken to court.
Adrian Peterson has accepted a plea deal that allows him zero jail time, and he is likely to return to the field by week 11.
Ray Rice is still in court. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell will appeal against his indefinite ban from the NFL. Both players are being accused of receiving favorable treatment because of their elite status in the NFL.
However, the most shocking news story comes in the form of local sports news. The Miami Dolphins have succeeded in winning three games in a row, completely blowing the Chargers out of the water on November 2, 37-0. With a record of 5-3, they are third in the AFC Eastern division with one of the best defenses in the entire NFL thanks to the greatly improved defensive line and pass rushers.
Needless to say, this NFL mid-season showcased what is in store for the next 8 games. More players may be suspended, players may come back too soon, and maybe the Raiders will finish 8-8 and make it all the way.