Tom Brady Speaks Out on ‘Deflate-Gate’

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Tom Brady Denies Cheating  Patriots quarterback Tom Brady tackled questions about “deflate-gate” today and said he would “never do anything to break the rules.” The Super Bowl-bound New England Patriots’ star said he had no knowledge of tampering and his team’s coach expressed shock over the accusations. As questions swirl, a former NFL ball runner offers his take.     Learn More

King Abdullah Dies  King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia has died at the age of 90, after being admitted to the hospital on New Year’s Eve. State television said the king died of pneumonia. NBC’s Richard Engel reports on this major Middle Eastern leader and his successor -- who is now automatically king.     Learn More

Disney Responds to Outbreak  As Disneyland monitors 100 staff members and the measles outbreak hits six states, the company and health officials have a message to some families -- stay away. The debate over vaccine safety is a heated topic online and in doctor’s offices. One physician said he stresses “fears are misplaced.” But one mother said she won’t immunize because “my child’s life matters, too.”     Learn More

Coming Together  Billboards bearing anti-American slogans have been replaced by tourism promotions in Cuba, where U.S. negotiations began today. They are complicated discussions that need to establish civilized relations between two countries that have been at odds for decades. NBC’s Andrea Mitchell reports from Havana, as an unexpected controversy has erupted at Guantanamo Bay.     Learn More

1,000 Fled N.J. Inferno  A thousand people fled their northern New Jersey homes yesterday when a monstrous blaze struck the luxury Avalon at Edgewater apartment complex. Hundreds have nothing to go back to. As families tally their losses, investigators said the style of the structure contributed to the fast-moving flames.     Learn More

Yellowstone River Oil Spill  A state of emergency has been declared in Montana, where a pipe ruptured below the Yellowstone River and spewed oil into the water with a cancer-causing chemical. Soon after, some who rely on it for drinking water said they could taste oil when they sipped. The EPA is now searching for at least 40,000 gallons of crude oil, that they can’t see, under a frozen river.     Learn More

Bye, Bye Bacon?  Diners have spoken. The latest Zagat survey declares two restaurant trends are over, including the almighty bacon that’s been dominating gastronomy.     Learn More

The Ultimate Sidekick  Dogs in motorcycle sidecars bring joy, companionship and are simply a “match made in heaven.” They’re also a unique sight on the road. Watch as some relish the wind on their furry faces during a “tour of honor” tribute to military heroes.     Learn More