From the desk of the commissioner.
Dear Dave,
I got to looking at your uniform poll thingy this morning, and, frankly, I have some concerns. Even though your video spots have you pulling for the 49ers, we are thinking that the Seahawks fan base may be savvy enough to allow them to win this thing. This is concerning our marketing department, and when they flood my inbox I get nervous as the money guys aren't far behind.
The concern is that during the actual season the Seahawks look to dominate. I'm hearing from our people that allowing the 49ers to win a few of these polls during the off-season is a way to keep the beast from rattling the cage. Although it is clear the tables have turned and our league landscape is experiencing a polar shift to new and exciting teams, maintaining tradition is key to keeping our monetary apple cart upright. This league wants to always honor tradition, and I'm willing to do anything to insure the franchises that built this thing go out with some dignity.
Consider this note a warning: if you like you paycheck from the network, and want to keep it coming in, you'll do whatever it takes to allow Seattle to lose this thing. Talk to your tech guys and instruct them to do their magic. I can't tell you how important this is to your future.
Thanks very much Dave,
Roger
ps: Tell Sarah hi for me.