Vick is Indicted
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by MegECass110
Many of you know what my opinion of Michael Vick is as a quarterback. I think he's the most overrated player of my generation, a runningback with a strong arm, a talent with untapped potential. Lately, his off-the-field reputation has taken a hit, with allegations of involvement in dog fighting. It was reported a few weeks ago that Vick would not be indicted on federal charges, but today he was.
Whoa.
This is something I hold very close to my heart, because I love animals, and everything that's transpired in this case so far has shaken me. From the disturbing profile of the dog-fighting world to the grisly details of the evidence on the property Vick owned, I wanted to believe it all wasn't true. Despite the fact I don't really like Vick as an athlete (I'm not a big fan of his attitude, either), I don't want anyone to be convicted for something they didn't commit. This is the first step, and Vick and his associates are far from being declared guilty.
What I am interested in seeing, as probably many of you are, will be the reaction of Roger Goodell. People have referenced the league's conduct policy focusing on punishing repeat offenders, and Vick is not a repeat offender, in their minds. Wasn't there an incident at an airport a few years ago? I forget the specifics, but there was some trouble. I love what the Commissioner has done to clean up the league's image, and now, when one of its biggest stars is put into question, his biggest chance to make a statement is right in front of him.
Then there's the on-field aspect. The Falcons are in a pickleickleickle, even if Vick is not suspended. This is not a Barry Bonds situation, where no charges have been filed and no formal process has been set in motion to prove he used performance-enhancing drugs. He will have some supporters, but I'm guessing the majority of them will not want someone in the midst of a trial leading their team. If they release him (a possibility, but a slim one, I think), they have to find another QB, and more importantly, another face for the franchise.
Finally, kudos to Kelly Naqi for breaking this story.
Really finally, if you have a dog, go give him or her a hug.
