NFL: "Focus should be on the players and the game"

FOXBORO — An NFL spokesman has commented regarding NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's decision to attend the NFC Championship Game in Atlanta instead of the AFC Championship Game in Foxboro this Sunday.

In a statement provided to Channel 11 News' sister station, FOX25, NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said, "The focus should be on the players and the game. Two great teams in what should be a classic game."

Goodell attended the Falcons/Seahawks game last week and then flew to Kansas City for Sunday night's game between the Chiefs and Steelers.  He has not attended a game in Foxboro since the Deflategate controversy began in 2015.

Goodell did attend the 2015 AFC Championship Game between the Patriots and Colts, receiving criticism that weekend for attending a party at Robert Kraft's house the night before the game.

He also was in Foxboro for the previous week's Divisional Playoff game against Baltimore, sitting in the stands as the Patriots beat the Ravens.

Earlier this week, Patriots players were indifferent when asked about Goodell's decision.

"I couldn't care less," said wide receiver Chris Hogan.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick was also asked about Goodell's decision during his news conference on Wednesday.

"I'm focused on the Steelers," said Belichick.

Channel 11’s Joe Arena and Bill Phillips will be traveling to  Foxboro for this weekend’s AFC Championship game, with live reports starting Saturday. 

Kickoff is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. Sunday at Gillette Stadium. 

For complete Black and Gold coverage, visit our Steelers section. 

Cox Media Group