Rex Ryan’s relationship with the New England Patriots’ media corps is nearly as contentious as his with the team itself.
For the second time in two years, Ryan’s mid-week conference call with New England reporters became a tense affair Wednesday after one disputed the Buffalo Bills bench boss’ claim that he is an “above-average” NFL coach.
Ryan was asked about this exchange during his Thursday news conference.
Via ESPN.com’s Mike Rodak:
Reporter: “Your conference call with the New England media (Wednesday), those don’t seem to be your favorite conference calls.”
Ryan: “I don’t even care, you know? It’s like, whatever. That doesn’t bother me at all. Let’s face it, we’re here in Buffalo. Nobody likes anything in Boston.”
Reporter: “Including reporters who are from there?”
Ryan: “Pretty much.”
Reporter: “Do you think they’re just trying to get under your skin?”
Ryan: “Oh, please! I mean, it’s not like the first time. … This is, like, seven, eight years. It’s the same every time you talk to them. So you have fun with them, going back and forth.”
Ryan’s Bills visit the 3-0 Patriots this Sunday at Gillette Stadium. Ryan-coached teams are 4-11 against New England, including the postseason.
Thumbnail photo via Kevin Hoffman/USA TODAY Sports Images
