The Patriots did have their camera man Matt Estralia (mis-spelled im sure) have his tape taken away and asked to leave Lambeau Field, he simply decided to tape from the tunnel instead, now that's dedication the the value his spying gained for the team.
Just because the Patriots said they didnt use the tapes during the games does not make it the truth. Remember, your taking the word of a team that knowingly broke the rule and then lied about their interpretation. But they certainly would not go to such lengths and risk so much if the benifit was not major, and it was.
These numorus (3 coaches) you have mentioned does not represent the majority of the league. One of them might have cheated himself so he'll defend it. Others would not want to get on the bad side of Roger Goodell who's been hell-bent on sweeping it under the rug. The opinions of a handfull of individuals who's opinions could be infuenced by many reasons, can not play down or disprove the obvious. The Pariots knew many plays before they came and what my friends was a major advantage.
Also, knowingly breaking the rules, and using technology to secretly videotape other coaches signals, jam opponents radio frequencies, is certainly cheating. You were correct in stating that they were breaking the rules, but in so doing they were in the process of cheating.
As far as the Denver situation, if anything is to ever be proven, of course they should be punished. But reading lips and using binoculars is using the naked eye, not technilogy. The binoculors is the issue and thats bad but nothing near the level of videotaping. Cheating the salary cap is bad, that should also be punished. But thats aiding you in gaining players you otherwise might not have. The Patriots knew the plays coming, and messed with other teams radio signals, that is a much bigger advantage and they certainly capatalized off of this extensive cheating by winning 3 super bowls they otherwise would have lost.