Butler had repeated issues throughout the season with being late and acting disinterested, yet he played almost 98 percent of the snaps. In the first two Patriots playoff games he played every single snap. Yes, that was the same angry Butler that couldn't wait to get out of NE.
So why bench the guy in the SB for an ongoing issue? Obviously nothing nefarious enough happened to send him home happened. So it was the same disgruntled Butler that played all season and every playoff snap.
It looks to me like BB thought he could embarrass Butler by taking away his opportunity. It was a miscalculation and he allowed his personal feelings towards Butler to cost the team. He did the same thing with Wes Welker who also turned down a low ball contract offer.
Now you see the leaders on both sides of the ball throwing shade at their coach. His ego got the best of him and cost everyone else a championship.
Seeing Hightowers actions now makes me better understand Landon Collins remarks about BB. They probably can't stand the guy.