Belichick fed up with sideline tablets

BOSTON (AP) -- Bill Belichick is throwing in the towel in his ongoing fight with the use of tablets on the sideline.

Responding to a question in a conference call Tuesday about headset issues the Patriots had during last week's win over the Bengals, Belichick said he "can't take it anymore" with the tablets, adding there isn't enough consistency in the performance of the devices.

He also railed for several minutes about on-going issues with NFL technology, including the communication system between coaches in the press box and those on the field, as well as the coach-to-quarterback play calling system, which Belichick said "fail on a regular basis."

Earlier this season Belichick was caught on camera slamming down a sideline tablet following a Bills touchdown.

Belichick said going forward he's going to stick with low tech -- printed images taken of plays during the game to help strategize on the sideline.

Belichick’s comments on sideline tablet have led Microsoft to release the following statement today:

“We respect Coach Belichick’s decision, but stand behind the reliability of Surface. We continue to receive positive feedback on having Surface devices on the sidelines from coaches, players and team personnel across the league. In the instances where sideline issues are reported in NFL games, we work closely with the NFL to quickly address and resolve.”

WFXT