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Shula reasserts criticism of Patriots

Associated Press The Spokesman-Review

Don Shula used softer language Thursday, but stuck by his belief the New England Patriots’ success this season is diminished by the spying scandal that prompted stiff punishment from the NFL in September.

In an interview with the Associated Press, Shula laughed when asked if the Patriots deserve an asterisk if they finish 19-0.

“That’s not for me to say,” the Pro Football Hall of Fame coach said from Miami. “They were penalized, after the first game, wasn’t it? They had a No. 1 draft choice taken away, and (coach Bill) Belichick was fined, and the team was fined. …

“Since then they’ve been playing within the rules, and their accomplishments should be recognized. But if there was something that happened to diminish what they’ve accomplished, then that has been noted.”

Shula coached the Miami Dolphins to a 17-0 record in 1972, still the NFL’s only perfect season. He caused a stir when he first made critical comments regarding the Patriots scandal to the New York Daily News on Monday.

“You would hate to have that attached to your accomplishments. They’ve got it,” Shula told the newspaper.

Young out for Saints

New Orleans Saints sacks leader Brian Young had arthroscopic surgery for left knee swelling and will miss Sunday’s home game against the St. Louis Rams.

Around the league

Vinny Testaverde is the leading candidate to start at quarterback for the Carolina Panthers after he practiced for a second straight day. Testaverde, who turns 44 next week, and undrafted rookie Matt Moore took all the snaps as David Carr missed his second straight practice with a concussion. … The Chicago Bears have lost nine-time Pro Bowl left guard Ruben Brown for the season because of a right shoulder injury that will require surgery. Terrence Metcalf will start in Brown’s place Sunday against the Oakland Raiders. … Wide receiver Terrell Owens was fined $10,000 for violating NFL uniform and equipment rules. Sunday night at Philadelphia, Owens waved a personalized towel on the sideline that was picked up by television cameras.