NFL Clears Patriots Of Headset Suspicion In Opening Game

FOXBOROUGH (AP) — The NFL says the New England Patriots had nothing to do with audio interference that rendered the Pittsburgh Steelers coaching headsets useless during the first quarter on opening night.

Spokesman Michael Signora said on Friday that the league believes the problem "involved no manipulation by any individual and that the Patriots had nothing to do with it."

The statement said the problem was "entirely attributable to an electrical issue made worse by the inclement weather."

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said after the 28-21 loss to the Patriots that communication problems are "always the case" when playing in New England. But on Friday, the Steelers said they don't plan to file a formal complaint.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick said he had problems with his headsets, too. And he said "it's just not right" that his team is repeatedly being accused of cheating.