NFL investigating New England Patriots over deflated footballs

At a press conference Monday afternoon, Patriots coach Bill Belichick would only say of the controversy that he first heard of the accusations earlier in the day and that his team would cooperate with the NFL.

According to NFL.com, the league's rulebook states game balls must be inflated with between 12.5-13.5 pounds of air. Each team must provide 12 primary balls for testing prior to the game.

The league's game operations manual notes: "If any individual alters the footballs, or if a non-approved ball is used in the game, the person responsible and, if appropriate, the head coach or other club personnel will be subject to discipline, including but not limited to, a fine of $25,000."