If Dean Barnett were an Atlanta Falcon fan, we would be hearing about how dogfighting isn’t such a big deal and that rivals were whining because they were jealous of Vick’s success in pitting dogs against each other in deathmatches. And also, probably, how the whole thing was good news for Mitt Romney.

No one has said that the Jets would have won the game if the Patriots had not been videotaping. It’s a straw man that Barnett thrashes with glee. In fact, considering how talent-laden the Patriots are, it’s what makes the videotaping so bizarre — why would a team like the Patriots need to try to steal the Jets’ signals? Between this and the allegations after last year’s Green Bay game, it’s easy to wonder if Belichick’s competitive streak overcomes his good judgment.

Either way, the League has determined videotaping the other team to steal their signals is against the rules. Barnett might be able to dismiss this with a “who cares,” but that’s an easy call for a substitute radio host sitting in the New England area to make; it’s tougher for Commissioner Goodell. After demanding a much higher standard from players in compliance with the rules and good conduct on and off the field, he’s supposed to look the other way when a coach does breaks league rules? If this is such a non-issue, why did Belicheck feel the need to issue an apology to “everyone who has been affected, most of all ownership, staff, and players”? Dean, if even Belichick has dropped the argument that this is no big deal and harmless, then it’s time to stop emulating the Japanese soldiers off on the Pacific Islands fighting long after the Emperor surrendered.

Commissioner Goodell is facing a decision of how you deal with a coach who operates outside the rules. Some have suggested a fine (not a big deal to a wealthy franchise), some have suggested forfeiting draft choices. I think I like the suggestion that Belichick be suspended for one week of practices and a game - later in the season, when the Patriots and Jets play again.

Cam: As a Pats fan, I would have no problem with your suggestion being implemented. I wasn’t keen on the addition of Randy Moss to the team, and this event has me paying far more attention to my mediocre Oklahoma State Cowboys than my excellent New England Patriots.

Marshall: I’m a few days late in weighing in, but as such, I have the benefit of knowing how Goodell did, in fact, act. And also the benefit of knowing that there are new allegations against the Patriots. Specifically, that in addition to their illegal video taping, they may also have been recording audio of the Jets’ quarterback and line calls. If that turns out to be true, I think the Commissioner should take even tougher action against Bellichek and the Pats. Bellichek had already been caught and warned once. He’s serial offender. I think he should be suspended for the remainder of the season and the playoffs. Enough is enough.