Morning sports update: Luke Kuechly says he ‘got away with one’ in 2013 Patriots game
The son of a Boston sports legend signed in Detroit, while another former Boston figure is dealing with the fallout of a federal investigation. And in a show of solidarity, all of the major league New England teams are combining to take a stand against racism.
Panthers’ Kuechly admitted he probably committed a penalty against the Patriots in decisive play of 2013 matchup: In the buildup to the Patriots-Panthers game on Sunday, Carolina linebacker Luke Kuechly was asked about the two teams’ last meeting. On the final play of the game, Kuechly bear-hugged Rob Gronkowski in the end zone, preventing the Patriots tight end from even trying to catch it. No call was made.
“I might have got away with one there,” said Kuechly on Wednesday. “I’m not even going to act like I didn’t. I might have got away with one.” (NESN)
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) September 27, 2017
Pedro Martinez Jr. signed with the Detroit Tigers: It was undoubtedly a proud day for former Red Sox ace Pedro Martinez, who got to watch his son, Pedro Jr., sign with the Tigers on Wednesday. Unlike his father and his uncle (another former Red Sox player, Ramon Martinez), Pedro Jr. is a third baseman.
“Obviously, the boy has physical talent, a great work ethic and a high level of education,” a Tigers executive said. “But also, he is the son of the great Pedro Martinez.” (ESPN)
Celtics fans view the Rick Pitino news with a unique perspective: The recent NCAA scandal in the wake of an FBI investigation has already produced many ramifications. One of the highest profile examples is in the case of Rick Pitino. The longtime Louisville coach has been placed on administrative leave for his program’s reported violations.
Of course for Boston fans, they remember Pitino for his ignominious Celtics tenure. (Boston Herald)
Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Revolution and Red Sox launch “Take the Lead” project: All of Boston’s major professional men’s sports teams are coming together for a new project to fight racism and hate speech. Unveiled on Thursday at Fenway Park, the program will include appearances by local leaders like Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, as well as athletes and sports executives. (CBS Boston)
