FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New Orleans Saints are hoping to have an outstanding season after being punished for a bounty program, just as the New England Patriots went to the Super Bowl after being penalized for spying on an opponent.
Saints safety Roman Harper said that in 2007, the Patriots took the approach that the penalty could only be a distraction if they let it be. And he said the Saints are adopting the same attitude.
The teams began two days of joint practices on Tuesday in preparation for their preseason game Thursday night.
Saints interim coach Joe Vitt said the Patriots did a great job of handling the adversity following their punishment. And he said his players have been through adversity before.
