The New England Patriots are the Most Hated Team in Football According to SI

It’s not really a secret that the four-time Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots are not the most popular of franchises around the country. After two scandals, debatable interpretation of league rules, and a consistent ability to win almost all the time, Sports Illustrated naming the team the most hated in the NFL is hardly the most shocking of developments.

“The Patriots’ recent title—and the issue of deflated footballs that hung over it—may have tipped the scales in the court of public opinion,” SI’s Chris Burke wrote.

The latest in a line of great NFL dynasties, the Patriots have surpassed the Dallas Cowboys as the bad guys of the league.

Head coach Bill Belichick was also named the most hated coach, with Doug Farrar noting that he is the most hated coach outside his own building.

“Between Spygate and Deflategate, his constant on-field trickery, his generally moribund press conferences and his undeniable football genius, Belichick is the guy most football fans love to hate, even if there is a grudging respect for his accomplishments,” Farrar said.

Other accolated from the article include fans of the Philadelphia Eagles being named the worst, Dan Snyder of the Washington Redskins earning the title of worst owner, and Percy Harvin being named the most hated player in the locker room.