While entering the stadium Sunday before the Superbowl, Bill Belichick was photographed by Boston Herald photographer Nancy Lane wearing a "Don't Tread On Me" shirt. The image was picked up by several news outlets and inspired questions about Belichick's political affiliation, with some even wondering if the coach had Tea Party affiliations. 

Patriots spokesman Stacy James has now cleared up the mini-controversy, explaining that the team has "some friends in the Marines" and the shirt was a gift from them. "Multiple coaches were wearing the shirt," she said. "This was specifically to support the military."