Matthew Slater: No Place In Football For Dirty Plays
BOSTON (CBS) -- The Patriots were on the receiving end of a few dirty plays during Sunday's 35-17 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, courtesy of repeat offender Vontaze Burfict.
ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss brought light to yet another dirty move by Burfict late Monday, Tweeting out a video of the linebacker intentionally stepping on running back LeGarrette Blount after a touchdown run late in the fourth quarter:
Not to be forgotten was Burfict's low hit on Martellus Bennett, which is what started all the nonsense:
Patriots special teams captain Matthew Slater joined 98.5 The Sports Hub's Toucher & Rich on Tuesday to discuss Sunday's win, and said there is no place in the game for dirty hits.
"Most players across the league feel as though we need to take care of one another. We know the violent nature of this game and the high injury rates. We don't need to do anything to add to that. There is no room in this game for dirty plays or illegal plays," said Slater. "As players, we need to take care of one another. I'm sure the league will take a look at it and do what they see fit.
"At the same time that was last week, and we obviously had the last say in the game by getting the W. We've moved on to Pittsburgh," he added.
Tight end Rob Gronkowski lost his cool Sunday afternoon and was flagged for taunting after one of his seven catches, which ended up costing the Patriots field position (they settled for a field goal on the drive). Patriots head coach Bill Belichick makes sure his players know they need to keep their composure on the field. Slater said that's sometimes easier said than done, but something the Patriots pride themselves on.
"It's certainly tough, but when you're in a tight game with a lot on the line, you can't do things to put your team at jeopardy. You can't cost your team with a personal foul or lose field position. It's tough when you're being attacked personally or maybe your health is at stake. You're going to automatically have a response to that. Coach understands that; football is a game of emotion and a physical game," said Slater. "But at the same time you have to be disciplined enough not to respond in certain situations and be able to walk away. It's easier said than done but its something we've always tried to do and will continue to do as we move forward."
Slater also took a listen to Fred's impression of him, which he said was "pretty good." Slater said his wife found it very entertaining and got a good laugh out of it. He also plugged his upcoming bowling event on October 25, Matthew vs. Matthew, with all proceeds benefiting the victims of Hurricane Matthew. Click here for tickets and more information.
Slater also touched on the play of rookie Cyrus Jones in the return game, playing in the Pro Bowl, Julian Edelman's love for Tom Brady, and the Gronk-Bennett combination. Listen to the full interview below:
