Richard Sherman controversy: Miked-up video may change some minds

Seattle cornerback Richard Sherman has been labeled a bad guy by some because of his nationally televised rant about San Francisco receiver Michael Crabtree following the Seahawks’ victory over the 49ers Sunday in the NFC championship.

But a video posted Wednesday night on NFL.com of a miked-up Sherman following his game-deciding tip in the end zone in the final seconds of regulation could change some minds.

The first-time Pro Bowler approached Crabtree after the play, patted him on the rear, offered to shake his hand and told the dejected receiver, “Hell of a game, hell of a game” -- only to be shoved in the facemask by Crabtree.

(Not seen on the video: Sherman being penalized for directing a “choke” signal in the direction of 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who had thrown the interception.)

The postgame scene a few seconds later was a virtual lovefest for Sherman, who got a kiss from Coach Pete Carroll, surprised Fox reporter Erin Andrews with a massive hug and later celebrated with fans in the stands.

Except, of course, when Crabtree and that final play was brought up.

Since Sherman is still a topic of conversation four days after the events unfolded, the video is definitely worth a look in that, if nothing else, it offers a more complete picture of what happened.