Hey all --

Remember after the San Diego playoff game, when LaDainian Tomlinson said the Patriots' shenanigans after their playoff win over the Chargers "start with their coach"? Of course you do.

Well, LT and Coach Bill supposedly kissed and made up at the Pro Bowl this year, where Belichick led the AFC squad.

Apparently, Tomlinson either forgot about the truce or just wants to start another beef with the Patriots.

During a press conference yesterday, Tomlinson was asked about the Jets' charge that New England was trying to steal defensive signals, and he said...

"I think the Patriots live by the saying, 'if you're not cheating, you're not trying.' I think they live off that statement and nothing surprises me really. I'm not surprised because you keep hearing the different stories (and) people complaining about the stuff that they do. You know, so I’m not surprised."

So, basically, LT is saying he's not surprised. We got that.

While at times it is infuriating for us media types who cover the Pats to hear a steady stream of "they're a good team, we respect them, blah, blah, blah," before every game, these are times when we see why that tactic is used. If you say the same thing about every opponent -- whether they be 1-0, 11-2 or 2-9 -- no one can be insulted or find bulletin-board material.

And on a personal not, I'd like to thank Tomlinson for providing me with my "dope of the week."

shalise