"Belichick and Kraft's Optimism for Patriots' Future Amidst Tarnished 'Patriot Way'"

New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick, who has long stressed the importance of looking forward rather than reflecting on past successes, recently made a surprising about-face by leaning on his own résumé when asked why fans should be optimistic about the upcoming season. However, recent years have seen the Patriots struggle without quarterback Tom Brady, and former team captain Devin McCourty has said there was never true hope among the offensive group. The "Patriot Way" may be a misnomer, as coaches and executives steeped in the philosophy have failed to replicate Super Bowl success elsewhere.