StHustle Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29307489/texans-jj-watt-says-taking-knee-american-flag Not sure a head coach has kneeled with players during the anthem. Interesting. I love to see that Watt get it. I'm really interested to see how the board would feel if McDermott announced he would kneel with his players. I personally would love to see it as long as he truly wants to protest the American government, but not if he is simply doing it to build some sort of stronger report with the players. 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LeGOATski Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 Maybe he would do it in support of his players, even though he personally hasn't had an issue with the system. Either way, I'm fine with whatever protest someone else wants to partake in. That's their right and it doesn't affect me. 9 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Buftex Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 Certainly. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rocky Landing Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I will say that I would proudly support McD kneeling in what should, in my opinion, be considered a respectful, silent protest in solidarity with fellow Americans' struggle for civil liberties, and the end to systemic racism-- ideals that are rooted in the constitution, and for which countless veterans have given their lives. 17 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
machine gun kelly Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 It doesn’t bother me at all if a player wants to legally and silently protest in this manner as it is their legal right. The league should have never made it a stipulation players cannot. I also applaud players who actually do something to further the cause about equality for all. Having said that, I wouldn’t do it as I have been raised to put my hand over my heart for the fallen. People on the league if they want to silently protest, ok. They aren’t hurting anyone, they are not looting, committing acts of violence, or anything else. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GunnerBill Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 2 hours ago, StHustle said: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/29307489/texans-jj-watt-says-taking-knee-american-flag Not sure a head coach has kneeled with players during the anthem. Interesting. I love to see that Watt get it. I'm really interested to see how the board would feel if McDermott announced he would kneel with his players. I personally would love to see it as long as he truly wants to protest the American government, but not if he is simply doing it to build some sort of stronger report with the players. I think Garrett did it didn't he? And Jerry? They all did it as I recall. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Doc Brown Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) There's nothing more American than allowing players to kneel during the national anthem. "I do not agree with what you have to say, but I'll defend to the death your right to say it." A smart move for the NFL after the National Anthem would be to ask everybody in the stadium (including the players) to rise and have 15 seconds of silence to honor the brave men and women in the military to honor those who are serving/have served or died defending this country. Edited June 14, 2020 by Doc Brown 6 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
machine gun kelly Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 Doc, you’re right a moment of silence is very appropriate. The problem is not in kneeling, or standing, it’s complacency over time and more than kneeling or any other peaceful protest, it’s our law enforcement agencies enforcing their already rules in their patrol guide including repercussions for breaking the patrol guide. In addition, it’s all of us teaching our children with every action and being a role model, it’s not black lives matter, it’s all lives matter. That is not to say the black lives matter movement is not a great step, I’m just taking it farther. Arabic lives matter, asian lives matter Hispanic lives matter, women’s lives matter, and so on. Stopping prejudice starts at home, and not allowing it from others. I do my very best to be kind to all people regardless of what I wrote above, and regardless of their socioeconomic status. It’s interesting every corporation I’ve ever worked has a zero tolerance for any off color jokes, comments, etc. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Putin Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 If kneeling has nothing to do with disrespecting the ?? or the military , then why Brees got crucified for standing up for the ?? and the military that his both grandparents served ? 2 1 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Negan Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I'm going to be kneeling at home if they show the anthem. 1 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Putin Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 5 minutes ago, Negan said: I'm going to be kneeling at home if they show the anthem. Nobody cares what you’ll be doing in you’re dad’s basement 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
eball Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I’m usually getting myself a beer or a snack during the national anthem and nobody ever told me I was disrespecting the flag or military for doing so. Of course, I support anyone and everyone who wants to peacefully protest in a manner that does not disrupt the rights of others. 4 2 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BillsDude Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 6 minutes ago, Putin said: If kneeling has nothing to do with disrespecting the ?? or the military , then why Brees got crucified for standing up for the ?? and the military that his both grandparents served ? Because Brees came across as judge, jury and executioner with his pompous and self-serving comments to try to make him look better, with him making it sound like anyone who disagreed with him and acted differently than him regarding the flag and anthem was disrespectful, wrong, and unpatriotic. That is fiction, prejudicial, ignorance and arrogance, and causes division to those watching and teammates who believe differently, as to many kneelers, non-conformists, etc, they feel they want that same right to kneel, feel, express or act differently without criticism, disrespect and threats against them. Instead Brees' comments made him look like a fool. I would never chastise but respect a saluter who believes the flag is a symbol of the heroes and the good about America IF they gave that same respect to other views and opinions and did not disrespect them.. I would respect those who kneeled too and felt it was their right to do such peacefully, if that kneeling or flag represented to them something else, because of oppression, racism, or all the bad in the country that they hope is fixed. Protesting and not doing the politically correct thing can open ears, eyes and minds! It's called keeping those in power in check, and holding them accountable for wrongs for the status quo that is not working but hurting others. Some might argue, "there is a time and place to do that, but not on tv and in sports." Well, ok, then stop playing the anthem in sports and telling athletes, viewers how to think, act and feel, to please the government who paid for the anthem in sports venues and demanded standing for it. Get politics and agendas out of sports, for both sides then, not just for one side. Otherwise, I will respect all, kneelers and saluters, if they respect the other! I will never respect a saluter that CALLS OUT and says kneelers are not to be respected, but never respect a kneeler that CALLS OUT and says saluters are disrespectful or bad either. That is where my problems are. Otherwise, both I would respect, as both are likely trying to unite the country in different ways. Brees apologized. So, that is a start. So to "Putin" the answer is, because Brees disrespected the others. Had he just stated what the flag meant to him and why he stood for it or saluted, great! But, to also state or suggest the others were disrespectful and he would never respect them, how disrespectful and prejudicial is that? He does not know a darn think why each of the others are doing what they are doing, as each may have their own specific beliefs and reasons. They could love their country as much as or more than him, by wanting equality for all, and to end the bad things that this country does to those who look, act or feel different. Saluting the flag or standing does not make one a good person, nor does kneeling. Its the other actions, inactions and words they do their entire lives that is more indicative of who one really is... 3 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
oldmanfan Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I pledge allegiance to the flag Of the United States of America And to the REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS The flag stands for the republic, not necessarily what folks who are against kneeling suggest. One nation, under God, indivisible WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL So is there liberty and justice for all? That’s the issue being protested. 12 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JetsFan20 Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) I’m over this dumb debate. How about they stand for the near 200k people who are going to be dead from COVID-19 by the time the season starts or the health care workers whom saved countless lives Players can stand, kneel, sit, or lay down for all I care. It doesn’t impact me one bit, and it’s not going to bring anymore awareness to the issue than it already has. Edited June 14, 2020 by JetsFan20 5 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
njbuff Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I don’t care if they kneel or not, but remember the backlash it caused in 2016 and the drop in tv ratings. No matter what you or I say, people are going to be alienated over this and is the NFL gonna be prepared for another ratings drop? We shall see. 7 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BillsFan17 Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 4 hours ago, Rocky Landing said: I will say that I would proudly support McD kneeling in what should, in my opinion, be considered a respectful, silent protest in solidarity with fellow Americans' struggle for civil liberties, and the end to systemic racism-- ideals that are rooted in the constitution, and for which countless veterans have given their lives. I'm just curious, where exactly is systemic racism prevalent? Now, keep in mind you don't know my gender, my race, my religion, absolutely anything else. Do not get defensive, just simply asking a question. Moreover, this whole, this is when we choose to do it, but it doesnt mean we are being disrespectful... its the equivalent of saying "no offense, but..." before saying something *****. 4 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BigBillsFan Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 Well BRAVO, only players are stupid enough to alienate their revenue source. As they commit financial suicide and then strike when the salary cap can't be raised let's see them kneel more. The biggest reason why owners around the league stopped this is because the stadiums were rapidly emptying and ratings went down. As an employee you cannot dictate the terms of employment except for immoral or unethical clauses. If the Bills kneel as a sign of protest I won't be watching this year. As Martin Luther King astute observed that peaceful protesting "does not seek to defeat or humiliate the opponent, but to win his friendship and understanding." 7 2 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bring it Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 16 minutes ago, oldmanfan said: I pledge allegiance to the flag Of the United States of America And to the REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS The flag stands for the republic, not necessarily what folks who are against kneeling suggest. One nation, under God, indivisible WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL So is there liberty and justice for all? That’s the issue being protested. You are right. There should be justice for all! It’s worth fighting for. And our brothers no matter there ethnicity need help at times. Things need to change in some areas such as with police brutality and racial profiling. Unlike what the media tends to portray there are many good cops but/this stuff happens way to much. We as a country can do better! Not perfect but better! It’s not against the law to kneel during the national anthem and many folks tend to look past it. Myself included. I actually admire Kaepernick’s courage but not his choices at times. His cause is just but his methods not so much IMO.He and others insist that there is no disrespect meant toward military. I believe that. This country is a republic and that means that the public or the people own and govern!! . Not a King or dictator who owns everything and rules over everyone. Our obligation as citizens is to each other not to a king!! We also have an obligation to fight injustice!! Kneeling during the anthem was a great way to get attention to his cause but making it a every game, during the anthem protest, was not probably a wise choice. If he didn’t want it to be disrespectful of our union as a country then perhaps kneel at other times as some here have suggested. Or maybe refusing to play the first series for example. Kap took it upon himself with help and has definitely paid a price for his actions. He shouldn’t expect to voice his opinion and not take the heat and consequences. Taking legal actions to regain what he felt was lost income made it seem to be about him and not the cause. And little things like his disrespectful socks at a team practice wasn’t helpful either. But what he is fighting for is worth attaining. Do we have to kill and destroy to accomplish that?! Do we have to destroy the things that are meant to bind us together(anthem)in order to cast out the parts that should never have been to begin with(racism)!!? Some of my family members have shared their own experiences with racism. The root cause is simple. Sin!! That applies to us all!! 2 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
All_Pro_Bills Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I had an interesting conversation with a successful African-American business person I know about the current state of race relations and one topic was kneeling before the flag. Their views were a lot different from the dominant narrative being played out almost everywhere. And while they would hesitate to say these things publicly for fear of being attacked their insights opened my mind to viewing things from a lot of different angles. Its goes like: "From the perspective of a minority person I think blaming white racism for all the problems faced by African-American people and communities is blacks saying the white man has the power to decide our fate. And the only way things are going to get better for us is if white people become less racist and treat us better. And white people joining in kneeling isn't so much joining us in the fight but rather them giving us their permission to try to improve our conditions. The entire concept ignores the principles of free will & control of your own destiny and replaces that with a mindset of dependence. Other minorities that prosper in America don't have this mindset. Think about that?" 3 5 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Reality Check Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I don't mind them taking a knee because they don't mind me not paying for their product. It's a good arrangement. I listen to them on the radio now for free, so I don't actually have to see them kneel. It works for me. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BillsFan2313 Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 At this point, how is there 20 votes for no? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SirAndrew Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) 57 minutes ago, njbuff said: I don’t care if they kneel or not, but remember the backlash it caused in 2016 and the drop in tv ratings. No matter what you or I say, people are going to be alienated over this and is the NFL gonna be prepared for another ratings drop? We shall see. This is the part that people miss. The NFL isn’t out to do the right thing. The league is all about revenue, and positioning themselves to be the premier sports league for years to come. The first protests damaged their product, so they put an end to it. I think the league is taking a gamble to position themselves for the future, nothing more. It isn’t about the players. They see everything that’s going on as an opportunity to become more hip like the NBA, and appeal to younger fans. They are afraid of ending up on the wrong side of history, and don’t want to become a league of older fans like MLB, with no future fan base. They are basically saying they accept losing one demographic, in hopes of picking up others. It will be interesting to see if it actually works, or this really hurts the league again. Edited June 14, 2020 by SirAndrew 2 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
4merper4mer Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) The self promotional JJ Watt strikes again. There is no topic too big or small. Edited June 14, 2020 by 4merper4mer 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thunderingsquid Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 Wow, the vote is 55/45? Defund Fox News 5 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Putin Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) 2 hours ago, BillsDude said: Because Brees came across as judge, jury and executioner with his pompous and self-serving comments to try to make him look better, with him making it sound like anyone who disagreed with him and acted differently than him regarding the flag and anthem was disrespectful, wrong, and unpatriotic. That is fiction, prejudicial, ignorance and arrogance, and causes division to those watching and teammates who believe differently, as to many kneelers, non-conformists, etc, they feel they want that same right to kneel, feel, express or act differently without criticism, disrespect and threats against them. Instead Brees' comments made him look like a fool. I would never chastise but respect a saluter who believes the flag is a symbol of the heroes and the good about America IF they gave that same respect to other views and opinions and did not disrespect them.. I would respect those who kneeled too and felt it was their right to do such peacefully, if that kneeling or flag represented to them something else, because of oppression, racism, or all the bad in the country that they hope is fixed. Protesting and not doing the politically correct thing can open ears, eyes and minds! It's called keeping those in power in check, and holding them accountable for wrongs for the status quo that is not working but hurting others. Some might argue, "there is a time and place to do that, but not on tv and in sports." Well, ok, then stop playing the anthem in sports and telling athletes, viewers how to think, act and feel, to please the government who paid for the anthem in sports venues and demanded standing for it. Get politics and agendas out of sports, for both sides then, not just for one side. Otherwise, I will respect all, kneelers and saluters, if they respect the other! I will never respect a saluter that CALLS OUT and says kneelers are not to be respected, but never respect a kneeler that CALLS OUT and says saluters are disrespectful or bad either. That is where my problems are. Otherwise, both I would respect, as both are likely trying to unite the country in different ways. Brees apologized. So, that is a start. So to "Putin" the answer is, because Brees disrespected the others. Had he just stated what the flag meant to him and why he stood for it or saluted, great! But, to also state or suggest the others were disrespectful and he would never respect them, how disrespectful and prejudicial is that? He does not know a darn think why each of the others are doing what they are doing, as each may have their own specific beliefs and reasons. They could love their country as much as or more than him, by wanting equality for all, and to end the bad things that this country does to those who look, act or feel different. Saluting the flag or standing does not make one a good person, nor does kneeling. Its the other actions, inactions and words they do their entire lives that is more indicative of who one really is... I don’t disagree with what you’re saying , and I think that both sides should be respected but it seems that most who are in support of kneeling don’t even give a crap about the other side , also what what I remember Brees saying is what the anthem and the ?? means to him and that he thinks of both of his grandparents that served their country and risking their lives during world war 2 , yes to me personally he did come out a little arrogant and one sided ... I understand and support everyone’s right to peacefully protest , but I also support the ?? because coming here as a Jewish immigrant from Russia this country gave me so much that I’m thankful for !!! Edited June 14, 2020 by Putin 1 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Artful Dodger Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I voted "no" because I don't want to be reminded about political or social problems when I'm watching sports. Sports is supposed to be an escape. On the other hand, if it makes the players happy and they play harder and as a result, the Bills get one or two more wins, I'm all in favor of it. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hebert19 Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 1 hour ago, njbuff said: I don’t care if they kneel or not, but remember the backlash it caused in 2016 and the drop in tv ratings. No matter what you or I say, people are going to be alienated over this and is the NFL gonna be prepared for another ratings drop? We shall see. Pretty sure if there are not crowds allowed in the stadium they will have fantastic ratings no matter what. Now on the topic at hand...it shouldn't matter what others do during anthem. Focus on you...if you think that kneeling is disrespectful then stand. Its a choice to protest this way...and by trying to take the choice away from someone you are part of the issue in my opinion. 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blank Stare Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 14 minutes ago, BillsFan2313 said: At this point, how is there 20 votes for no? This sensitive subject gives whitey an upset tummy. Shocking as it may be, people still don’t get it. 5 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dickleyjones Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 McDermott must kneel. He's all about "all for one and one for all". How can he demand the loyalty of his players if he does not show them he has their backs? Get ready whoever is offended by knees, you are gonna be offended. Hope you can survive. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
4merper4mer Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 18 minutes ago, BillsFan2313 said: At this point, how is there 20 votes for no? Demand groupthink! 4 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
K-9 Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 Why is it that some people just can’t accept everyone’s explanation for why they are taking a knee? Clearly no disrespect is intended yet some people are intent on being offended. Why the insistence, the need, to make it about something it isn’t? It’s a lot more than, “It’s my flag, it’s my country, it’s my military.” Some sort of psychological phenomenon is at play here. 4 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dickleyjones Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 4 minutes ago, K-9 said: Why is it that some people just can’t accept everyone’s explanation for why they are taking a knee? Clearly no disrespect is intended yet some people are intent on being offended. Why the insistence, the need, to make it about something it isn’t? It’s a lot more than, “It’s my flag, it’s my country, it’s my military.” Some sort of psychological phenomenon is at play here. If it is not offensive then it does nothing. It is a protest. It is not meant to be polite. getting a reaction of offense is exactly the point! 2 1 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alaska Darin Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 Dear professional athletes, Please continue doing meaningless things like taking a knee during the National Anthem instead of using your considerable financial resources and public credibility to help rid America of the scourge that is us. Sincerely, Politicians who've had decades to solve these problems but don't because it benefits them 1 2 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Putin Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) 2 hours ago, oldmanfan said: I pledge allegiance to the flag Of the United States of America And to the REPUBLIC FOR WHICH IT STANDS The flag stands for the republic, not necessarily what folks who are against kneeling suggest. One nation, under God, indivisible WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL So is there liberty and justice for all? That’s the issue being protested. How many people here can peacefully protest at work ? No not during lunch break but during actual work time that you are getting paid for , can a cashier at a grocery get on his knee for 5 minutes and peacefully protest while there’s 20 people waiting line ? Or maybe I can call my boss and tell him I had to shut down the rig ( oil production) because my guys wanted to peacefully protest? Most of us have two options either follow the company policy OR find another job GO BILLS !!! Edited June 14, 2020 by Putin 5 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kirby Jackson Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 I don’t care what McDermott does or what the players do. I suspect that a large portion of the league take a knee. I also suspect that it will be much more widely accepted as polls have indicated. It’s no longer looked at as “disrespecting the flag” and is now (correctly) viewed as “solidarity with the oppressed.” It isn’t going to change my experience one way or the other. I didn’t become a Bills fan because of the way that the consume the anthem. I’m there to watch them play football. 3 minutes ago, Putin said: How many people here can peacefully protest at work ? No not during lunch break but during actual work time that you are getting paid for , can a cashier at a grocery get on his knee for 5 minutes and peacefully protest while there’s 20 people waiting line ? They aren’t working at that point though. If they peacefully protest on 3rd down that’s the equivalent. 4 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sherlock Holmes Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) Just be careful not to get the team hit with the canisters of tear gas McD! Also when the looting begins are we hitting the beer 1st then Chicken Wings or the other way around? I'm gonna make sure I'm wearing my bib , things are going to get really sloppy? Edited June 14, 2020 by Sherlock Holmes Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Putin Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) 11 minutes ago, Kirby Jackson said: I don’t care what McDermott does or what the players do. I suspect that a large portion of the league take a knee. I also suspect that it will be much more widely accepted as polls have indicated. It’s no longer looked at as “disrespecting the flag” and is now (correctly) viewed as “solidarity with the oppressed.” It isn’t going to change my experience one way or the other. I didn’t become a Bills fan because of the way that the consume the anthem. I’m there to watch them play football. They aren’t working at that point though. If they peacefully protest on 3rd down that’s the equivalent. I’m sorry but when you are wearing your company’s uniform you are working , unless you are on the way home AGAIN MOST of us , obviously NFL players are special and we are all beneath them Edited June 14, 2020 by Putin 4 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Deep Voice Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 4 hours ago, Doc Brown said: There's nothing more American than allowing players to kneel during the national anthem. "I do not agree with what you have to say, but I'll defend to the death your right to say it." YEAH 1 hour ago, BillsFan2313 said: At this point, how is there 20 votes for no? YEAH 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DCOrange Posted June 14, 2020 Share Posted June 14, 2020 (edited) 18 minutes ago, Putin said: How many people here can peacefully protest at work ? No not during lunch break but during actual work time that you are getting paid for , can a cashier at a grocery get on his knee for 5 minutes and peacefully protest while there’s 20 people waiting line ? Or maybe I can call my boss and tell him I had to shut down the rig ( oil production) because my guys wanted to peacefully protest? Most of us have two options either follow the company policy OR find another job GO BILLS !!! If we're trying to make the analogy accurate, would my boss care if I'm kneeling at my computer instead of sitting or standing? No, she would not. It's not like the players are refusing to play (at least not yet). Kneeling doesn't impact their ability to do their job in any way whatsoever. Edited June 14, 2020 by DCOrange 3 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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